Tulsa, Oklahoma–based Mazzio’s Corporation signed a franchise partnership with Fransmart, the franchise development company behind the growth of brands such as Qdoba, Five Guys Burgers & Fries, and Zpizza. Fransmart will help develop Mazzio’s Italian Eatery across the U.S. and in certain international markets Fransmart has been expanding in with its portfolio brands.

“Mazzio’s has been around for 30 years, has over 170 locations, successful franchisees, and the timing has never been better to be a tenant looking for locations so we were happy to be able to add Mazzios to our portfolio,” says Fransmart CEO Dan Rowe. “The concept is universally appealing and their franchise program is exceptionally well structured to support new unit growth. Mazzio’s Corporation is a seasoned franchisor—they not only franchise restaurants, they are also excellent operators. Fransmart is excited to expand this great concept worldwide.”

Greg Lippert, president and CEO of Mazzio’s, says that this new partnership will allow both brands to grow and provide new opportunities for employees and new franchise partners.

“We know that pizza and Italian food is extremely popular with consumers based on the value it offers young adults, families, and empty nesters,” he says. “There is so much demand for what Mazzio’s represents and we want to extend the brand to new markets. Fransmart was drawn to Mazzio’s Corporation based on our history as successful restaurant operators and the experience found in our Tulsa Support Office.”