Marco’s Pizza California Expansion With 16-Unit Deal Growth

Marco’s Pizza is strengthening its California presence after a major development agreement expanded an existing four-store commitment into a 16-unit franchise deal. The move highlights the brand’s continued momentum as it targets strategic growth markets across the United States.

Southern California franchisee Baljit Gill initially entered the system with plans to open four locations after being attracted to Marco’s Pizza’s structured operating model, franchise support, and growth potential. After gaining confidence in the brand’s systems and leadership, he increased his commitment by adding 12 more locations.

Gill said successful multi-unit operators seek brands that combine proven systems with room for local execution. He noted Marco’s Pizza offered both a strong foundation and a collaborative franchise environment.

California Openings Already Underway

The expansion is already in motion with three locations operating in:

• Upland
• Fontana
• Hesperia

Additional stores are in development in:

• Yucaipa
• Highland

More locations are currently in site selection throughout Southern California.

Family-Owned Growth Strategy

Gill’s business growth has been built around a family-driven operating structure. His family currently manages a large multi-brand restaurant portfolio in Southern California, including Subway locations and an Auntie Anne’s unit.

Responsibilities are divided strategically:

• Gill oversees long-term planning and operations
• His wife manages the Subway business portfolio
• His daughter leads Marco’s Pizza operations
• His son also supports the family business

This structure gives the group operational depth while allowing rapid expansion.

Why Marco’s Pizza Is Growing

Marco’s Pizza continues to attract experienced franchisees looking for scalable restaurant opportunities. The company has more than 1,200 locations across 35 states and international markets.

Growth priorities include:

• Opening more than 80 stores this year
• Expanding into Mexico and Caribbean markets
• Exploring ghost kitchens and nontraditional formats
• Launching new menu innovation initiatives
• Strengthening franchise training and consistency

Technology and Franchise Support

Marco’s Pizza has also invested heavily in digital operations and customer experience. The brand continues enhancing its ordering ecosystem, loyalty platform, POS systems, and forecasting tools designed to improve store efficiency.

Franchisees also receive support in:

• Real estate selection
• Construction guidance
• Financing assistance
• Local and national marketing
• Operational training

With a growing California pipeline and experienced operators joining the system, Marco’s Pizza remains one of the most active pizza franchise brands in the market.