The automated pizza franchisee looks to reach 1,000 units by 2027.
By Andrew Carlo
PizzaForno, the automated pizza maker, said it has reached a “significant’ agreement.
The latest move is a 40-unit expansion plan, including new locations scheduled to open in Clarkston, Caledonia, Flint, and Troy, Michigan.
Under this plan, two automated pizzerias will be situated at the Amazon distribution center in Grand Rapids, in partnership with sub-licensees DM Vending. Additionally, a SUNOCO gas station in Clarkston, the Oakland Mall in Troy, and Mott College in Flint will see new pizzerias.
The automated pizza solution is designed “the fast-paced needs of a modern workforce,” PizzaForno said.
The 40-unit agreement was reached with Forno Brothers LLC who is scheduled to bring 10 more units to the market in 2025 with the remainder opening in 2026. Leadership at Forno Brothers includes Jason and Monika Lowder along with Dan and Shay Russell.
“We are thrilled to continue to introduce Michigan to 24/7 pizza automation at a time when prices are rising and food quality is often compromised,” said Dan Russell. “PizzaForno’s turnkey vending solutions provide hot food options 24/7, meeting the demand in high-traffic areas where choices are limited. Welcome to the future of dining.”
Jason Lowder, master licensee of Michigan and chief marketing officer of PizzaForno, is a former vice president at Marco’s Pizza and a successful multi-unit franchisee.
“Being such a strong part of a brand that is revolutionizing the pizza experience is incredibly fulfilling,” Lowder said. “Our rapid growth is a testament to the quality and innovation we bring, and I’m excited to share that with our local communities.”
In the long run, the plan at PizzaForno calls for 1,000 operating units by 2027.
“This is a monumental moment for PizzaForno as we take a significant step into Michigan,” said Les Tomlin, co-founder and president of PizzaForno. “I look forward to not only making a lasting impact here, but also expanding our reach into many more states and Amazon distribution centers in the near future.”
PizzaForno was founded in 2018 buy Canadian entrepreneurs William Moyer and Les Tomlin. The automated pizza makers provide a variety of pizzas to choose from in 5 minutes. Stand-alone pizzerias are accessible 24/7 at the tap of a digital screen,
The company said it currently has over 70 operating locations, primarily in Canada. In the United States, more than 30 locations are open in California, Georgia, Florida, Delaware, Michigan, Virgina, Alabama, Texas, Mississippi, and Louisiana. According to PizzaForno, commitments have also been reached for another 100 U.S. locations.
To learn more about becoming a PizzaForno franchisee, click here.
A video about PizzaForno’s turnkey process and business model can be viewed here.
