In the midst of a year with more than 80 restaurants targeted to open, Ohio-based Marco’s Pizza started construction on a 14,000-square-foot Operations Center of Excellence in downtown Orlando, Florida. The growing chain described the facility as an extension of the company’s headquarters, “designed as a performance engine for the entire system.”
Marco’s announced the project June 16, noting construction is currently underway and expected to open this fall. Backed by an investment exceeding $1 million, the facility is slated to serve as a corporate office, destination and operations hub, complete with a fully equipped training kitchen designed to replicate those in operating units.
The company intends to use the Operational Center of Excellence to host prospective franchisees, house Marco’s University for advanced training to franchisees and general managers, support ongoing education and operational refinement, and convene franchisees, corporate leadership and supply chain partners.
“This investment reflects the intentional way we scale our business,” John Meyers, chief operating officer of Marco’s Pizza, said in a press release. “We are building the systems, environments, and capabilities that allow our franchisees not only to grow, but to operate with precision, consistency, and confidence.”
The Orlando Economic Partnership has assisted Marco’s with the project thus far, helping the brand navigate local incentive opportunities, providing support with expedited permitting, and connecting the brand with local workforce, utility and government partners.
“This investment further reinforces Orlando’s position as a strategic hub for high-growth companies looking to scale operations and talent,” Tim Giuliani, OEP’s president and CEO, said in a press release. “Marco’s Pizza’s decision to establish its Operations Center of Excellence downtown speaks to the region’s business climate, skilled workforce, and connectivity. We are proud to partner in supporting their continued expansion and the opportunities this brings to our community.”
Once complete, the Operations Center of Excellence will boast capacity for roughly 50 corporate team members, furthering the brand’s presence in Florida — the state with more than 160 operating Marco’s Pizza units, more than any other state.
