Established
1993
Franchise Units
30
Minimum Investment
$1,200,000
Franchise Fee
$40,000
Total Investment Range
$2,500,000
Home Based
No
Description
MacKenzie River Pizza Co. has carved a distinctive niche in the American casual-dining landscape by blending innovative pizza creations, rustic Montana-inspired hospitality, and a welcoming lodge-style ambiance that resonates with families, professionals, and food lovers alike. Known for its adventurous flavors—ranging from artisanal pizzas to creative appetizers, hearty sandwiches, and crafted beers—the brand has become a destination for customers who want more than a meal; they want an experience.
With a proven operational system, strong Midwest and Mountain West roots, and a loyal customer base that values quality, creativity, and authenticity, MacKenzie River Pizza Co. continues to attract franchise investors seeking a restaurant concept that stands out in a competitive segment. The brand’s commitment to fresh ingredients, chef-driven recipes, and memorable guest experiences positions it as a unique contender in the full-service pizza restaurant category—an industry that continues to show strong resilience and growth across the USA.
As consumers increasingly prioritize atmosphere, flavor innovation, and consistent service, MacKenzie River Pizza Co. delivers a franchise model that aligns with evolving dining preferences while offering franchisees a scalable, profitable, and credible opportunity.
Why Invest in the MacKenzie River Pizza Co. Franchise?
Investing in MacKenzie River Pizza Co. means joining a brand with a strong identity, refined operations, and a leadership team that understands the nuances of full-service restaurant success. Several key advantages make this franchise a compelling investment:
1. A Distinctive Concept in a Crowded Market
The brand combines the appeal of handcrafted pizzas with a unique mountain lodge theme, giving guests an experience that feels premium yet approachable. This differentiation helps franchisees succeed even in highly competitive territories.
2. Strong Menu Versatility and Broad Appeal
Beyond pizza, the menu includes appetizers, pastas, burgers, salads, desserts, and beverages, allowing locations to attract families, groups, and repeat customers throughout the week.
3. A Track Record of Operational Excellence
MacKenzie River Pizza Co. has refined its systems, supply chain partnerships, staff training processes, and menu consistency through years of direct operation and franchising experience.
4. High Engagement Dining Model
The casual dining experience, paired with alcohol sales, helps operators achieve higher average ticket values and increased revenue potential—especially during weekends and evening hours.
5. Scalable Multi-Unit Opportunity
With growing national demand for experiential dining, this franchise offers expansion potential in suburban communities, regional malls, lifestyle centers, and high-traffic commercial zones nationwide.
Background
MacKenzie River Pizza Co. was founded in 1993 in Bozeman, Montana, by Brad “Mac” McKenzie, an entrepreneur driven by the idea of creating a restaurant experience inspired by the rustic charm and outdoor spirit of the American Northwest. What began as a local Montana favorite quickly evolved into a regional success story, known for its handcrafted pizzas, adventurous flavors, and welcoming lodge-style atmosphere that set the brand apart in the casual dining sector.
Over the years, MacKenzie River Pizza Co. has expanded strategically beyond its Montana roots, growing into multiple states while maintaining the authenticity and quality that built its early following. Today, the brand operates 30+ active locations across the USA, including both franchise-owned and corporate-operated restaurants. This steady expansion reflects the brand’s strong systems, reliable operations, and the increasing national demand for experiential dining concepts.
The company is part of the broader casual dining and full-service pizza restaurant industry, a category that continues to see stable consumer demand due to its focus on comfort food, family-friendly environments, and community engagement. MacKenzie River Pizza Co. differentiates itself with chef-driven recipes, premium ingredients, and a warm, Montana-inspired interior design that creates a memorable atmosphere for guests.
Under experienced leadership and a proven franchise structure, MacKenzie River Pizza Co. continues to strengthen its presence in the United States, making it an appealing opportunity for entrepreneurs seeking a brand with history, identity, and long-term growth potential.
Support Training
MacKenzie River Pizza Co. offers a comprehensive, hands-on support system designed to help franchisees achieve smooth operations, consistent customer satisfaction, and long-term profitability.
Pre-Launch Support
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Site assessment, selection, and approval to ensure optimal foot traffic, demographics, and competition analysis
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Restaurant layout and architectural guidance including kitchen design, dining room aesthetics, and branding requirements
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Initial training programs covering culinary preparation, menu execution, POS systems, staffing, inventory management, and hospitality standards
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Assistance with vendor sourcing, supply chain onboarding, and equipment procurement
Operational Support
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Onsite training during opening week with certified trainers
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Standard operating procedures (SOPs) covering all areas of restaurant management
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Regular quality audits and performance reviews to help franchisees maintain consistency
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Access to proprietary recipes, menu innovations, and seasonal product rollouts
Marketing & Brand Support
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Grand opening marketing campaigns
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National and regional advertising initiatives
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Digital marketing guidance, including social media content, local promotions, and brand-approved creative assets
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Ongoing menu promotions, loyalty programs, and community engagement strategies
Ongoing Franchisee Support
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Dedicated franchise consultants to provide continuous coaching
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Operational updates, cost-control resources, and staff training materials
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Access to the franchise intranet with training videos, updated manuals, and marketing resources
Ideal Candidate
MacKenzie River Pizza Co. is best suited for entrepreneurs who appreciate hospitality, enjoy community-focused businesses, and want to build a high-quality dining experience in their region. Ideal candidates typically include:
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Experienced restaurant operators or investors with backgrounds in hospitality, QSR, casual dining, or multi-unit management
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Entrepreneurs passionate about food quality, creativity, and guest experience
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Investors with strong leadership abilities, capable of recruiting and managing high-performing teams
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Individuals who can commit to hands-on involvement during the early stages and strategic oversight over the long term
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Financially capable investors who meet the brand’s minimum liquidity and net-worth requirements
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Franchisees interested in opening locations in suburban neighborhoods, lifestyle centers, high-traffic commercial areas, and growing markets across the USA
This franchise attracts owners who value consistency, hospitality excellence, and a concept with a strong identity that sets it apart from typical pizza chains.
Financial Detail
| Category | Amount / Range |
|---|---|
| Total Investment Required | $1,200,000 – $2,500,000 |
| Minimum Liquid Capital Required | $500,000+ |
| Minimum Net Worth Required | $1,000,000+ |
| Franchise Fee | $40,000 – $50,000 |
| Build-Out & Infrastructure Costs | $800,000 – $1,600,000 |
| POS & Technology Systems | $25,000 – $40,000 |
| Initial Inventory & Supplies | $20,000 – $35,000 |
| Training & Onboarding Costs | $10,000 – $20,000 |
| Grand Opening Marketing | $15,000 – $30,000 |
| Ongoing Royalty Fee | 4% – 6% of Gross Sales |
| Brand Marketing Fund Contribution | 1% – 2% of Gross Sales |
| Working Capital (First 3–6 Months) | $100,000 – $200,000 |
| Average Store Size | 4,000 – 6,000 sq. ft. |
| Estimated Break-Even Period | 12 – 24 Months |
| Expected ROI Timeline | 3 – 5 Years |
| Revenue Streams | Dine-In, Takeout, Delivery, Bar Sales, Catering, Events |