From the pages of Restaurant Franchising
Providing Opportunities by Awarding Franchises

“Why is it a great time to be with Little Caesars? Because we continue to grow and provide opportunities for people to achieve their dreams and become independent business owners as franchisees,” says Bob Mazziotti, vice president of franchise development at Little Caesars. “More and more people are thinking of franchising as a career opportunity.”

Individuals from all walks of life across the country have been taking greater control of their futures with Little Caesars for decades. In fact, 2012 marks the fiftieth anniversary of franchising for the chain.

“We’re at a very exciting point in our history,” Mazziotti says. “We offer customers a high quality, convenient product at a terrific value, and it’s ready when they are, with no waiting or need to call ahead. People are looking for value now more than ever before, and we provide it.” Mazziotti points to the fact that Little Caesars has been named Best Value in America* for the last five years in a row as evidence that consumers appreciate their offering.

So, who are strong franchisee candidates? Mazziotti says Little Caesars looks for individuals with an entrepreneurial spirit who are ready to work hard, enjoy people, have a lot of passion for the brand and products, and who like to get involved in their communities. “Giving back has been part of our philosophy since the first store opened in 1959, and our franchisees share the desire to make a difference in their communities. Our brand appeals to all kinds of people. Our next franchisee might be a stay-at-home parent ready to go back to work, a couple who wants to work together, or someone changing careers and leaving corporate America for small business ownership.”

“You know it works when you see second and third generations of families coming into the business. That’s one of the best parts of my job.” —Bob Mazziotti, VP Franchise Development

Franchising opportunities are available nationwide. Little Caesars is in all 50 states, and many markets are available.

When it comes to the application process, Little Caesars first provides information for candidates to determine if the brand is right for them, and to help them understand all the requirements and what will be needed from them as franchisees. Little Caesars takes the approach of awarding franchises to candidates who really understand the concept. “Our franchise license advisors, who have operations backgrounds, work with candidates to understand their goals, and explain what it takes to run a store,” Mazziotti says. “It may be a different philosophy from other franchisors out there, but it works. You know it works when you see second and third generations of families coming into the business. That’s one of the best parts of my job.”

Little Caesars offers real estate, operations, marketing, and general business training for its franchisees, as well as ongoing support once the stores are open. Continuing training and education are offered at seminars. In addition, operations staffers visit the stores to help franchisees grow their businesses.

The company also extends business opportunities to veterans through the Little Caesars Veterans Program. The program offers credits and benefits that can help qualified veterans transitioning to civilian life or seeking a career change become Little Caesars franchisees. More than 65 veterans have collectively benefited from nearly $1.6 million in credits and discounts to open their Little Caesars stores.

“I encourage everyone who is interested in owning their own business, providing opportunities for their families, and having fun along the way to contact us today,” Mazziotti says. “We would love to help them become part of the Little Caesars family.”

* “Highest-Rated Chain – Value for the Money” based on a nationwide survey of quick-service restaurant consumers conducted by Sandelman & Associates, 2007–2011

For more information about franchising opportunities with Little Caesars, visit www.littlecaesars.com.