According to a press release, When Pankaj (Manu) Nijhawan attended a Pizza 73 franchise fair in October 2007, he made the decision that very day to become a partner and Pizza 73 franchise owner. Since then, he’s been eagerly anticipating the moment when he would open the doors to his very own Pizza 73 restaurant. Now, that wait is over.  

“I decided I wanted to become a partner right away; it was an instant decision,” said Nijhawan. “Pizza 73 is a vibrant company with a great brand name and to know that we are supported by the largest network of experts in the industry just makes things even better.”

Nestled in downtown Fort Saskatchewan, the city’s first Pizza 73 restaurant is located at 10009 99 Ave. The 1800 square foot eatery is one of five Pizza 73 new concept restaurants that hosts in-store family seating, offers pizza by the slice, and features longer operating hours from lunch to late night. The opening of this location highlights a growing demand for Pizza 73 in the community and the success of the joint venture model in attracting local entrepreneurs.

“Our team works closely with local entrepreneurs to identify growing markets whose residents have demonstrated a need and appetite for new dining options,” notes Pat Finelli, chief marketing officer for Pizza 73. “Our goal has always been to provide more choice, value and quality to customers with the help of local partners who are looking for a stable and enjoyable career.”

Nijhawan’s background includes a masters degree in computer science and various progressive management positions. Despite his prior successes, Nijhawan’s always hoped for the opportunity to make a more direct impact in his community.

“I longed for the challenge of working more closely with people,” he said. “I’m really looking forward to serving my community and giving my customers great food made especially for them, through consistent, reliable service they can count on.”

Currently the store employs three full time and three part-time employees and is looking to expand.

In conjunction with a recent store opening in Okotoks, Pizza 73 now has 71 locations in western Canada.

Pizza 73 aims to satisfy each and every customer by providing excellent quality food and true value in a fast and friendly manner. The company is a leader in the communities in which it operates by providing in kind support and volunteers to numerous charities, events, youth programs, and sports teams at the corporate and franchise level.