Little Caesars Expanding with 30+ New U.S. Restaurants

Little Caesars, the third-biggest pizza chain worldwide, is launching a huge expansion across the United States. The Detroit company has signed several new deals with franchisees to open over 30 new restaurants in major markets including San Diego, Memphis, Tampa, and Raleigh.

"The growth and momentum we've built in the first three months of 2024 underscores the strength and viability of Little Caesars," said Patrick Cunningham, VP of U.S. development. "Our development pipeline is strong...seeking opportunities to expand our presence while meeting evolving guest demands through technology and innovation."

Leading the Southern California push is seasoned franchise owner Leo Gonzalez, who runs multiple Little Caesars locations. He's committed to opening nine new San Diego stores by 2027. In Florida, Jocelyn Monperousse and Lissette Isabel of RJBL Pizza will debut the brand's first traditional restaurant in Bradenton as part of a five-unit Tampa expansion through 2027.

But Little Caesars isn't relying solely on traditional dine-in restaurants. It's also launching a new prototype called "Little Caesars PODs" - compact offsite-built outlets designed for quicker construction timelines than conventional eateries. The chain seeks multi-unit franchisees for these alternative venues like college campuses, waterparks, and sports arenas.

The big expansion plans come as pizza rivals like Marco's Pizza, Papa John's, and soon-to-arrive Freshslice Pizza are also growing rapidly across the U.S. Up-and-coming brands like Slice House Pizza are making strategic moves too, with plans to expand into Tennessee soon.

With Little Caesars restaurants already operating in all 50 states and 28 countries worldwide, their popular Hot-N-Ready pizzas and low pricing could become even more widespread as the chain focuses on growth in the U.S.

Check out our guide to pizza restaurants in the US to find the best pizza in your area.