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Pizza Factory’s Next Chapter: Why This 40-Year Pizza Franchise Is One to Watch in 2026

Pizza Factory franchise

2025 has been a milestone year for Pizza Factory, and we’re closing it out by looking back on several months of productive changes, exciting expansions, and inspiring franchisee stories. From new openings to strategic brand evolution, this year reflected the heart of what Pizza Factory is: a community-driven brand built for long-term growth.

Our franchise network showed up with incredible momentum, expanding into new markets, reopening in beloved neighborhoods, and welcoming the next generation of owner-operators. Now, as we look ahead, Pizza Factory is poised to be one of the best pizza franchises of 2026.

A New Era with Wonder Franchises

In January of 2025, Pizza Factory officially joined Wonder Franchises. With this transition, we have doubled down on what makes the Pizza Factory franchise special: owner-operator passion and legacy community relationships make all the difference when we open in a new market.

This partnership also marks a major step in our growth strategy. With Wonder’s support, the Pizza Factory franchise has already begun modernizing systems, identifying new priority markets, and enhancing franchisee resources, all while maintaining the authenticity and hospitality our brand was built on. We can’t wait for even more progress in 2026.

A New CEO Leading the Next Phase of Growth

In July of 2025, we welcomed Lisa Roscoe as our new Pizza Factory CEO. Lisa brings decades of experience in franchising, real estate, and brand development from roles with Tim Horton’s, St. Louis Bar & Grill, and, most recently, Outfront Media. She has a proven track record of leading growth while prioritizing strong franchisee relationships.

In her first few months as CEO, Lisa has proven that she knows the importance of preserving the hometown culture that defines our brand, while driving innovation across training, operational systems, and local store marketing. Her leadership reinforces our founding belief: when our franchise system is supported and equipped with the right tools, each Pizza Factory becomes a hub for community and connection.

Franchisee Growth Stories That Reflect the Model

Our growth is powered by franchisees who are deeply invested in their communities. Recent openings and expansions highlight how the Pizza Factory franchise model works in real-world markets. Here are just a few highlights from 2025:

  • Paradise, CA: Father-son operators Barry and Bartev Avakian opened Pizza Factory Paradise on January 9, playing a powerful role in the town’s continued revitalization. Their goal is to create a space for families to reconnect and rebuild after years of recovery from wildfire devastation.
  • Silver Springs, NV: Multi-unit Pizza Factory franchise owner and Director of Sites Eric Lombardi spearheaded the reopening of this location, restoring a community favorite with renewed energy and heart. Eric’s story reflects the strength of our operator-led development approach, and the pride we take in bringing Pizza Factory to places that love our brand.
  • Shasta, CA: Husband-and-wife team Marlee and Matt Rogers opened their first Pizza Factory this fall, just miles from where they first met while working in Matt’s parents’ Pizza Factory location in Dunsmuir. After decades of learning the brand from the inside out, they are now building a legacy of their own in a refreshed, community-beloved space.

Where Pizza Factory Is Expanding Next

As Pizza Factory looks ahead to 2026, the brand is prioritizing high-opportunity, community-oriented markets across the West, particularly in Washington and Idaho. Current growth regions include:

  • Washington: North Bend, Olympia, Bellingham, Sedro-Woolley, Monroe, Port Orchard
  • Idaho: Sandpoint, Post Falls, Spirit Lake, Silver Valley, Athol

These markets align with Pizza Factory’s strengths: growing communities, local pride, and demand for sit-down dining experiences that bring people together.

With our team and our system driving strategic growth, Pizza Factory is set to enter the new year with renewed passion for the communities we serve: 40 years was just the beginning. In 2026, we’re ready to bring the Pizza Factory franchise to even more families, fans, and owners. If you’re interested in being a part of our growth in 2026, fill out our inquiry form today.