Donatos Pizza is set to take a slice out of Savannah. The Ohio-based fast-casual pizza chain, has signed an agreement for the development of three restaurants in the area over the next few years.

While no lease has been signed, the brand is eyeing midtown to Windsor Forest for the first restaurant.

“We are thrilled to bring our Edge-to-Edge pizza to the Savannah community,” says Jeff Baldwin, Vice President of Development & Franchising. “The Hostess City is known for its vibrant culture and welcoming demeanor. We look forward to serving our hospitality and delicious pizza with the community.”

Donatos was founded in 1963 when Ohio State sophomore Jim Grote bought a small pizza shop in Columbus, Ohio from a young seminarian for $1,300. The company was classified “Best in Class” and acquired by McDonald’s Corporation in 1999, at a time when the burger giant was buying small concepts. McDonald’s sold the chain back to Grote and his daughter, Jane Grote Abell, in 2003.

The restaurant serves wings, sub sandwiches, appetizers and salads in addition to its award-winning Edge-to-Edge® pizza, Donatos’ trademark that refers to toppings that go right to the edge of the pizza. Along with dine-in experience, Donatos also offers delivery and catering services.

“At Donatos, we pride ourselves on being family-friendly and welcoming to all,” adds Baldwin. “Our company values match Savannah’s culture and we look forward to establishing lasting relationships in the city.”

The Donatos franchise fee is $30,000, and the initial investment to own a franchise ranges from $361,360 and $697,400. The average annual volume per location exceeds $1 million. Stores typically average 2,000-2,500 square feet, and roughly 30 primarily part-time employees are hired to staff a singular location.