California Pizza Kitchen (CPK) today announced its next chapter of growth with the activation of its domestic franchising program. For the first time in the brand’s history, CPK is franchising select U.S. markets, both new and existing, as part of a broader strategy to accelerate revenue and unit growth.
CPK has reached its first partnership agreement under the program with Sundine LLC, a multi-unit operator with a proven track record in the fast-casual and quick-service restaurant space.
Under the new agreement, Sundine will acquire three CPK locations in its home market of Las Vegas, with plans to open six additional units across Nevada and Utah over the next several years. These strategic openings will serve as a cornerstone of CPK’s domestic expansion strategy, which focuses on partnering with a select group of experienced operators in key markets who will be granted exclusive rights to develop the restaurant brand in determined territories, as well as future brand extensions.
“This is a significant moment in CPK’s growth strategy as we officially welcome our first major partner in the domestic business,” said CPK President Michael Beacham. “Aligning with top-tier operators like Sundine in key markets outside of California is not just about building new restaurants—it’s about ensuring the continued long-term equity of our brand and quality of our guest experience. With Sundine’s expertise and personal passion for CPK, they will certainly set the bar high for future partnerships.”
Sundine, which operates more than 85 restaurant and retail units across well-known brands, such as Del Taco and Jack in the Box, was selected for its deep industry experience and operational infrastructure. “We are honored to become true partners with California Pizza Kitchen,” said Sanjiv Bhagat, franchise partner and CEO of Sundine. “Our family has been loyally dining at CPK for as long as I can remember, and as restaurant owners, we are fully confident in the continued growth of this brand.”
CPK’s franchising program offers an opportunity for experienced multi-unit and multi-brand operators. It grants partners exclusive rights to domestic expansion of the full-service dining concept as well as future brand extensions. Additionally, CPK provides franchise partners with the tools and resources needed for success, including cutting-edge technology, marketing, training and operational support, the company said.
In addition to Nevada and Utah, CPK is actively engaged with potential partners for markets such as Florida, the Mid-Atlantic region and along the East Coast, among other areas. The company aims to select three to four qualified partners per year, in parallel with growing company-owned locations, to reach its overall domestic expansion goals.
For those interested in exploring franchising opportunities with CPK, more information can be found at cpk.com/franchise.