Columbus, Ohio-based Donatos Pizza is continuing its Texas expansion with the signing of three new franchise groups, solidifying its commitment to growing further in the Lone Star State. The latest deals—two in the Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) area and one in Houston—bring Donatos Pizza’s total franchise groups in Texas to nine, with seven now actively developing in DFW and two in Houston.
Planning a long-term growth strategy in Texas, the brand aims to open more than 100 locations over time across key markets, including DFW, Houston, Waco, Austin and East Texas. Its latest momentum builds on a strong 2024 for Donatos Pizza, which is advancing its strategic focus on four key categories—people, innovation, brand relevance and growth—under the leadership of new CEO and president Kevin King. With territories still available across key Texas markets, the brand continues to seek qualified franchise partners.
“With every new agreement, we’re strengthening our footprint on these communities throughout Texas while showcasing our commitment to delivering more of what our guests love: more toppings, more flavor and more deliciousness,” says Jeff Baldwin, VP of development and franchising at Donatos Pizza. “DFW and Houston are powerhouse markets, and we’re excited to welcome motivated franchise partners who are ready to grow with us.”
Donatos Pizza currently operates locations in Flower Mound and Frisco. With the pipeline of new stores growing rapidly, the brand anticipates several new Texas locations will open their doors beginning in 2025. “Texas is a huge priority for us,” King says. “We are attracting very capable partners who are ready to build something meaningful with us in the Lone Star State.”
Donatos Pizza recently launched its new tagline, “Gotta love more,” which speaks to the brand’s promise to deliver more of what matters most to its customers: more value, more innovation and more community connection. “This mantra comes to life not only through bold new menu innovations like the popular $5 Pizza Pals Menu,” the brand announced, “but also through passionate franchise partners bringing Donatos Pizza to new neighborhoods across the country.”
Donatos Pizza was founded by Jim Grote in 1963 in Columbus, Ohio, and remains a family-owned business known for thin-crust pizzas with abundant toppings spread “Edge to Edge.” Still headquartered in Columbus, Donatos and its franchise partners now operate more than 176 stores. Additionally, Donatos Pizza is served in nearly 300 nontraditional locations nationwide, including select Red Robin restaurants.
