Australian owned and operated Domino’s Pizza Enterprises Limited (DPE) has confirmed that its European expansion plans are on track with the recent opening of its 101st store in France.

DPE first entered the European market in July 2006 after purchasing existing Domino’s Pizza stores in France, Belgium and the Netherlands.

Since the purchase, DPE has added 11 new stores in France and 22 new stores in other European countries. The 101st store in France opened on 12 January at Kingersheim.

Listed on the Australian Stock Exchange, DPE now operates 395 stores in Australia, 62 stores in New Zealand, 101 stores in France, 12 stores in Belgium and 75 stores in the Netherlands.

Domino’s Pizza Enterprises CEO Don Meij said while expansion was continuing in Australia, the Company was embracing opportunities in Europe.

“Since we purchased the European stores we have implemented our successful Australian business model which has helped to grow sales, reduce costs and improve operational efficiencies. The European stores are on-track to deliver their first profit contribution in 2007-08,” he said.

“While reaching 100 stores in France is a great milestone, our focus in all our markets is on new store openings, new menus and new store formats which complement the continued roll-out of marketing and operational initiatives, such as internet ordering, to drive growth.”

Domino’s Pizza Enterprises Limited is Australia’s only publicly-listed pizza company and is the master franchisor for the Domino’s Pizza brand in Australia, New Zealand, France, Belgium and the Netherlands. Across these markets, the Company and its franchisees operate 645 stores.

In Australia, the 395 stores employ more than 11,000 staff and make more than 50 million pizzas each year.