A new franchise development agreement signed by Blaze Pizza, the nation’s #1 fast-casual franchise pizza concept, expands the brand’s footprint in South Florida by nine units. Asif Ghaffar and Tahir Mahmood of BLD Restaurant Group are spearheading this growth, adding the fast-growing pizza business to their existing portfolio. Blaze Pizza currently operates 25 locations in Florida, with plans to expand statewide over the next few years.
They plan to debut their first new Blaze Pizza in Miami in Spring 2022, with a second site under construction and set to open soon after. Ghaffar and Mahmood have over 15 years of franchising and culinary service expertise, currently owning 12 Denny’s restaurants throughout Miami.
The two partners decided to diversify after managing the severe difficulties. According to Asif Ghaffar, when the whole restaurant industry was struggling in the early days of the epidemic, Blaze Pizza stood out for its swift response and adaptability. The kind of response it then received gave Ghaffar the confidence to be a part of Blaze in the thriving South Florida community.
Blaze Pizza’s continued nationwide success has generated a rush in franchise creation, particularly among experienced franchisees wishing to diversify their portfolios. Despite the epidemic, Blaze Pizza’s expansion is driven by consumer demand for innovative products and technology and operational support investments. These include curbside pickup, third-party delivery, and drive-thru lanes. These concepts have helped Blaze Pizza tap into lucrative regions, including South Florida, Texas, and California.
Vice President of Blaze Pizza Franchise Development Ed Yancey said that the latest franchise deal reflects Blaze Pizza’s status as an industry leader and the operational excellence that has continued to fuel our growth. Their deep grasp of consumer preferences and commitment to innovation makes them a perfect diversification option for multi-unit portfolios. Yancey and the team are thrilled to have Asif and Tahir participate in Blaze Pizzas’ mission to diversify their full-service portfolio across South Florida.
Blaze Pizza, founded in 2011, has over 340 locations in 38 states and six countries. Blaze Pizza, based in Los Angeles, is dedicated to providing exceptional customer service and high-quality goods. Blaze Pizza is known for its savory handmade pizzas and a customizable, made-to-order menu featuring fresh, natural ingredients devoid of artificial colors, flavors, preservatives, and sweeteners. The fast-expanding brand has been recognized by Entrepreneur, Fast Casual’s Top 100 Movers & Shakers, and Franchise Times’ Fast and Serious list.
For Blaze Pizza franchise queries, know that the brand is rapidly expanding and seeking talented franchisees to join its successful brand. There are still chances in Oklahoma, Arkansas, Texas, Colorado, Virginia, and the Northeast. For more information, email Ed Yancey.
Liked what you read? Follow us on Linkedin.
Want your franchise news to be covered? Send your Press Release.