S&S Group LLC is joining the Uncle Maddio’s team as minority stakeholders in the company and will serve on the board of directors. In addition, S&S has plans to open up to 17 Uncle Maddio’s Pizza Joints in various locations around the country.
S&S is also an early investor in Five Guys corporate and owns and operates Five Guys locations in several markets across the country. The S&S team, based in Washington, D.C., is excited to partner with another strong brand and take a step into the pizza industry.
“Fast-casual pizza is one of the fastest growing segments in the restaurant industry, and after much due diligence, we invested in Uncle Maddio’s as the pioneer of the category and a brand most likely to catapult in future growth,” says Cal Simmons of S&S. “With its experienced leadership team and nationwide franchisee interest, we view it as a best-in-class concept.”
Uncle Maddio’s will use the capital to augment the company’s infrastructure, technology and human capital—a strategy aimed at both enriching franchisee support as well as staying abreast on cutting-edge technology. Currently, Uncle Maddio’s operates 35 locations in 14 states.
“What really excites us about our new partners is the intellectual capital they bring to the Uncle Maddio’s team,” says Matt Andrew, CEO and founder of Uncle Maddio’s Pizza Joint. “The S&S Investment team has been a part of the Five Guys growth since 2006.” As Ned Scherer of S&S put it, “What was always first class about Five Guys was their mandate to deliver the absolutely highest quality, freshest food to its customers under the friendliest of environments. Uncle Maddio’s has the same mandate and appeals to the same demographics as Five Guys. Our experience and capital should help them deliver on that promise.”
Since launching its aggressive growth plan in 2008, Uncle Maddio's has signed franchise agreements with 57 different entities in 18 states. Many of Uncle Maddio's franchisees have previous multiunit experience with Jimmy John's, Firehouse Subs, Dairy Queen, McDonalds, Burger King, Krystal, Papa John's, Domino's, Golden Corral, and Five Guys. Uncle Maddio's is on track to have 300 restaurants open in five years with 1,000 units in development.
Uncle Maddio's offers premium ingredients and more customization than any other fast-casual pizza chain. Guests choose from one of three crusts, including a gluten-free option, and 48 toppings including six sauces, 27 vegetables, and 15 meats. Create-your-own signature salads and toasted Panini sandwiches round out the Italian-style menu. The restaurant also offers a selection of craft beers and wine.
