A new location of Donatos Pizza will hold its grand opening on July 22 in Edmond, Oklahoma, but it already has deep roots in the community, thanks to franchise co-owners Will and Matt McLain. And that’s a big advantage for a chain that wants to prove it’s not just looking to milk a new community for every pizza dollar it can get.
With their second Oklahoma store set to bring around 35 jobs to the area, the two brothers are eager to hit the ground running and ultimately plan to expand their reach to the greater OKC metro area and the rest of Oklahoma.
Will McLain said the Donatos store will work with local nonprofit organizations like Arise Single Moms and Edmond Mobile Meals. Additionally, he said, “We love helping our Edmond schools and athletic booster clubs raise money for their programs and are ready to do it on a larger scale with the opening of this second location.”
The Edmond community recognizes the McLain brothers as true pillars of the community due to their consistent support for local nonprofits, extracurricular activities and community events around town.
For Donatos, that kind of local credibility is priceless. Franchisees who know the neighborhoods, understand the customers, and have existing relationships with schools, sports teams and other local businesses can start bringing in foot traffic and online orders from day one. It’s also easier to hire and retain staff when the franchisee already has strong hometown connections.
“We have worked closely with Donatos, and not only do they make great food, but they also love and serve the community in ways that few other partners do,” said Brad Sheriff, president of the Edmond Memorial High School Basketball Boys Booster Club. “The McLains have supported Edmond Memorial High School at multiple events with food and financial support. Our basketball booster club and fans especially love the halftime half-court contest to win free pizza for a year.”
For Donatos President and CEO Kevin King, the McLain brothers make ideal franchisees. “They grew up in Edmond and know better than anyone how special this community is,” King said. “It’s about more than just pizza; it’s about providing a space to create special memories and bond over a good meal with good people. The McLains embody these values better than anyone. I can’t think of a more dedicated group of people to bring our wonderful pizza to Oklahoma.”
Donatos Pizza was founded in 1963 when Ohio State sophomore Jim Grote bought a small pizza shop in Columbus, Ohio. Today, Donatos has expanded to more than 470 locations across 29 states.
