News

Toppers Pizza eyes core markets for aggressive growth

June 4, 2012

Wisconsin-based Toppers Pizza plans to more than triple its footprint by the end of 2015. The 41-unit pizza chain is eyeing core markets such as Wisconsin, as well as Chicago and Minneapolis.

By the end of 2012, the brand anticipates having 30 locations in Wisconsin, five in Chicago and six in Minneapolis.

In 2013, Toppers plans on adding eight Chicago units and nine Minneapolis units. And by the end of 2015, Wisconsin, Illinois and Minnesota will include more than 70 locations.

"Clustered growth protects our brand and secures better franchisees, better real estate all with a stronger attention to our customer," said Scott Iversen, director of Marketing. "With better market penetration, we are able to attack the three screens (TV, Mobile and Internet) with powerful, interactive engagement."

Currently, Toppers has 41 locations throughout Wisconsin, Minnesota, Kentucky, Ohio, North Carolina, Indiana, Illinois and Nebraska. Upcoming openings include locations in Michigan, Minnesota, Illinois, Wisconsin, and Texas.

Focusing its expansion on the Upper Midwest, the brand's growth plan is to reach 150 locations by the end of 2015 by targeting multi-unit/multi-brand franchisees with portfolios that include proven franchise brands.

"As we grow, like a balloon, out of Wisconsin and into surrounding states and then nationwide, we want to maintain a stronghold on top-tier franchisees. By doing so, we can maintain our core culture, our brand evolution, and our methodical growth pattern," Iversen said.

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