Growing Pizza Chain to Open 20 Locations in Phoenix Area Within the Next Five Years
Los Angeles-based fast-casual restaurant, Pizza Studio, will expand into Phoenix after signing a multi-unit development agreement for 20 new locations in the Phoenix area over the next five years. The first location opened in CityScape on March 10, 2014 at 11 W. Washington Street, Suite 120.
“CityScape will be our flagship restaurant in downtown Phoenix,” said John Lutz. “Whether it’s a quick business lunch, dropping in before a ball game, on the way to a concert or just enjoying a day in our beautiful downtown area, Pizza Studio will serve as a great dining option.”
Lutz is a veteran in the restaurant industry with 30 years of experience. He received a Bachelor of Science degree in business from the University of Hawaii. Most recently with Red Robin Gourmet Burgers, Lutz has provided leadership and guidance on both the corporate and franchise side of the restaurant industry. After becoming interested in the fast-casual pizza segment, Pizza Studio was a natural fit for Lutz. He says, “The Pizza Studio team has done an incredible job creating the vision, fundamentals, culture and community spirit of the brand.” Lutz signed the multi-unit agreement with Pizza Studio as chief operating officer in January.
Pizza Studio is a fast-casual franchise concept that invites guests to create their own custom pizza masterpiece. A wide assortment of crusts, specialty sauces, premium meats, fresh and roasted vegetables and the highest quality ingredients are offered at affordable prices. The company is known for its variety of flavors of their proprietary thin, light and crispy crusts with unlimited toppings of sauces, cheeses, nitrate-free meats and fresh-cut and roasted vegetables for each custom-built pizza creation.
Lutz is delighted to bring Pizza Studio to CityScape. There are currently a few sites under review for upcoming locations. All 20 locations will open within five years.
Since its founding in 2012, Pizza Studio has signed development agreements with several experienced multi-unit operators for 175 units.
Pizza Studio was founded in 2012 by Samit Varma and Ron Biskin. After a successful military career, Varma became a partner at Anthem Venture Partners, a California-based venture capital firm. Biskin has enjoyed a long career in the franchised restaurant segment with companies such as TGI Fridays, Burger King, Baja Fresh and Wolfgang Puck. Together, the pair launched the “Create Your Own Masterpiece” concept and opened the first restaurant in Southern California in January 2013 where it has developed into a successful chain of Pizza Studios.
Website: www.pizzastudio.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThePizzaStudioSoCal
Twitter: https://twitter.com/MyPizzaStudio
