Craig Moore, president of CiCi’s Pizza, has announced that the company will expand coast to coast this year opening restaurants in the major markets of California and New York, as well as Delaware and New Jersey. For the second consecutive year, CiCi’s Pizza will continue with its aggressive expansion plan growing the company to more than 700 locations and opening about 185 restaurants by single-unit and multiunit franchisee operators between 2008 and 2009. CiCi’s will continue to expand in the Midwest and Southeast where the company already enjoys solid brand recognition.
“We don’t see any slowing in our momentum anytime soon,” Moore says. “CiCi’s offers a unique dining experience, exemplary service and a high quality menu which is proving to be a welcome diversion from typical quick serve and fast casual fare. By giving both consumers and investors the unbeatable value they want, we’re well positioned for continued sales and unit growth.”
“Our concept is competitive with the best performing restaurant franchises which has increased the level of interest from multi-unit operators and investors looking for innovative concepts and new avenues for growth. They’re realizing that it just doesn’t make sense to compete in crowded restaurant categories especially when many leading brands are already over developed,” says Jim Sheahan, vice president of franchise sales.
CiCi’s Pizza’s inquiries about franchise opportunities has grown exponentially over the last year due in part to increased advertising efforts, media awareness, and overall positive guest relations. The company will continue to push forward in 2008 with a focused brand message that emphasizes how CiCi’s Pizza stands out from its competitors with distinctive food and menu offerings within the industry.
“Telling the story about our food is critical,” Moore says. “Our guests come to CiCi’s Pizza for the quality flavors and freshness we deliver and our marketing team has done an exceptional job conveying that message in an engaging and distinctive way.”
Founded in 1985, CiCi’s Pizza is a family-oriented restaurant serving guests fresh pizza, pasta, salad and dessert, all you want for under $5.00. CiCi’s mission then and now is to exceed each guest’s expectation in food, service and cleanliness at an affordable price. Since opening its first restaurant in Plano, Texas, CiCi’s has grown to over 600 restaurants in 29 states.
