Franchising

Marco's Pizza to open 80-plus stores in 2026

Marco's sign over a black awning on a light brick building

March 6, 2026

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Marco's Pizza has plans to open more than 80 stores in 2026, aiming to surpass the 60 locations it debuted last year. The expansion strategy includes entries into new domestic markets, international territories and nontraditional venues such as ghost kitchens, according to a press release.

The company's 2025 growth included a move into New Jersey and a development agreement for New Mexico. Internationally, the brand focused on Mexico, Puerto Rico and the Caribbean. To support this scale, Marco's added three executives to its leadership team: Chief Financial Officer Bill Schaffler, Chief Marketing Officer Steve Kennedy and Vice President of Franchise Growth Brad Smith.

"Marco's momentum is driven by a commitment to thoughtful expansion and strong franchisee support," Gerardo Flores, CDO of Marco's Pizza, said in the release. "As we look ahead, we remain focused on building the infrastructure, technology and innovation needed to support the next phase of growth."

Upcoming initiatives for 2026 include:

Operational training: Development of an "Operations Center of Excellence" for systemwide performance.
Digital updates: An updated loyalty program and the exploration of AI-powered ordering.
Menu changes: New product launches led by Chef Kathleen Kennedy.
Incentives: A "Franchise Development Royalty Incentive Program" featuring early-stage royalty incentives starting at 0% for qualified multi-unit owners.

According to the company's Franchise Disclosure Document, the top 25% of its franchised stores reported a $1.3 million average unit volume in 2024. The brand recently ranked No. 50 in the 2026 Entrepreneur Franchise 500.

Marco's Pizza is headquartered in Toledo, Ohio and operates more than 1,200 stores in 35 states with locations in Puerto Rico, the Bahamas and Mexico.