Franchising

Mr Gatti's targets Lubbock, Texas for growth

Photo: Mr Gatti's Pizza

August 19, 2026

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Mr Gatti's Pizza is targeting the Lubbock, Texas, market for one of its new Family Entertainment Center (FEC) locations, the company said in a news release.

"Lubbock has always been a meaningful market for our brand, and we see a unique opportunity to reintroduce Mr Gatti's in a way that feels both familiar and new," Travis Smith, executive vice president of Mr Gatti's Pizza, said in the press release. "There's strong nostalgia tied to the brand, but just as importantly, there's growing demand for family-friendly entertainment experiences. Our updated FEC model is built to deliver on both."

Mr Gatti's Family Entertainment Centers combine the brand's pizza and buffet offerings with immersive attractions such as arcade games, prize centers, private party rooms and group event spaces. The model is designed to drive repeat visits, group gatherings and birthday celebrations, key revenue drivers that continue to resonate with both franchisees and guests.

The brand's targeted return to Lubbock aligns with broader franchise development momentum across Texas and beyond. Mr Gatti's has continued to expand its footprint through new franchise agreements, multi-unit development deals and successful reentries into legacy markets. In markets where Mr Gatti's has reentered, franchisees have benefited from a combination of nostalgia-driven demand and modernized operations, creating a powerful platform for growth.

"We've seen time and again that returning to markets with established brand equity creates a strong foundation for success," Smith added. "Lubbock checks all the boxes with strong population growth, community pride and a history with our brand. With the right partner, we're confident this market can support a new Family Entertainment Center."