PizzaExpress to Expand Dough Base Stateside

PizzaExpress has announced plans to expand its dough base and enter the US market, it emerged today

The UK brand will open its first stateside location in Florida next year, coinciding with its 60th anniversary.

Founded by Peter Boizot in the 1960s in London, the company has since grown into a $500million global presence with 360 restaurants in the UK and Ireland and 110 international locations across 12 markets.

The firm is now planning to introduce a new pizza concept to American consumers, with live and “live light” music venues.

It already owns six live venues, including three in London, where artists like Ed Sheeran, Amy Winehouse, and Norah Jones have performed.

In a statement, PizzaExpress said its aim is to expand its number of restaurants globally to 1,000 by 2030.

To facilitate its US expansion, the firm has partnered with franchising group Purple Square, which already operates more than 240 locations across 15 states.

Chris Holmes, chief development officer at PizzaExpress, said: “To debut in the US, it was vital to find an experienced franchise partner who shares our passion and vision to deliver delicious pizzas while simultaneously offering a unique dining experience.

“With Purple Square, we’re confident we’ve found the perfect partner to help raise the bar for pizza in the United States. Together, we’re bringing the best of PizzaExpress to new audiences, the home of affordable everyday celebrations, where showtime meets dinnertime – whether you’re dining with family, mates, or dates.”

Vik Patel, Purple Square’s CEO and president, added: “This is a full circle moment to bring a brand I’ve loved and grown up with in London to a new market eager for an elevated pizza experience.”