As the pizza industry flourishes, Blaze Fast-Fire’d Pizza is generating attention from motivated investors inspired to break into the fast-casual space.
Most recently, the brand signed a development deal for the greater Boise area with franchise industry veterans Denny, Drew and Chase Wagstaff. A tight-knit family with generational restaurant experience, the Wagstaffs have already assumed ownership of the existing Blaze Pizza locations in Meridian, Eagle and Nampa, Idaho and have plans to add two more restaurants in the Treasure Valley / Boise region.
“We’ve been fans of Blaze Pizza for a long time, and as restaurant operators we’ve always recognized the brand for its vibrant culture and guest experience,” says Denny, whose restaurant roots date back to his great-grandfather. “Then, when considering a development plan with Blaze, we got a better look at the leadership and support we’d receive—it’s a strong investment opportunity we couldn’t pass up. We have a great feeling about this new journey and the potential we have to grow with the brand in untapped markets.”
The Wagstaffs join Blaze Pizza with a strong operational experience as multi-unit franchisees for Costa Vida Restaurants, in which they own and operate six locations across Treasure Valley. Prior, Denny—father to Chase and Drew— was a KFC franchisee with 80 locations. Their quick-service restaurant-management style, ambitious development goals, and local market real estate knowledge make them ideal partners to facilitate the brand’s regional growth.
“Denny, Chase and Drew certainly have the operational skillset needed to run the restaurants, but they also embody the culture, enthusiasm and unified team management approach we value at Blaze,” adds Ed Yancey, vice president of franchise development for Blaze Pizza. “Their team will play a critical role in establishing an even stronger local brand presence, and their operational expertise will surely benefit the entire Blaze Pizza system.”
In the past few months, Blaze Pizza has continued to serve up artisanal pizzas that are both fast and affordable, all while Blazin’ It Safe. Some of the new safety protocols include plexiglass partitions, social distancing markers, team member wellness checks and bags to safely store masks while diners eat. Plus, most locations have a designated host in the dining area to assist guests throughout their visit.
The brand’s business model, made up of extensive site selection procedures, training programs and marketing support, is designed to attract individuals and operator teams with a strong business acumen, proven restaurant industry success and an interest in multi-unit franchising.
