A pizza chain that emulates Chipotle and counts LeBron James as an investor is going international
The Chipotle-style pizza chain that is becoming a threat to traditional delivery chains is going international.
Blaze Pizza recently announced its opening its first location outside of the United States this September.
The new restaurant will open in Toronto, Canada in Dundas Square.
On the location, Jim Mizes, president & COO of Blaze Pizza, said the company, "couldn't ask for a better place to begin than the food-forward city of Toronto," in a press release.
The company employed renown design architect Ana Henton to infiltrate elements of the city into the store design.
A wall in the store will be emblazoned with a graphic of the Toronto skyline.
Even the food will be specialized as the location is planning to offer Canadian dough to its customers.
The chain is really hoping to make a name for itself in Toronto's community.
It plans to assist in a local fundraising program that gives back to organizations, schools and sports clubs.
To fall in line with the company's eco-friendly initiatives, "the restaurant will use both recycled and sustainable materials and energy-efficient LED lighting, and will feature eco-friendly and compostable packaging," according to a release.
"We think that the authenticity of our food, plus our service culture that genuinely focuses on the happiness of our guests and crew, will be key to our success in Canada," said Mizes.
This store opening is just the first in the company's plan for major expansion.
Blaze is aiming for 500 locations by 2020.
The company opened 50 restaurants across the US in 2014 in cities like Miami, Washington DC, and New Orleans. This year it plans to open 60 to 70 new locations.
It's been so successful because customers love the customization experience that comes with dining at the restaurant.
"Until recently, your only options were the big, traditional pizza chains or sit-down restaurants," Mizes said. "We wanted to build something with a modern twist that would resonate with millennials."
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