Year in Review
Pittsburgh, PA – January 2005 - Have you had a good piece lately? Millions of Americans in 26 states have. With an 18% growth in retail units during 2004 Fox’s Pizza Den has reinforced their stand as a major regional franchise.
For the last five years the growth of U.S. pizzerias remained relatively flat. What’s interesting is that about 4,500 pizzerias close each year, while an equal number opens. In the vast majority of these cases, independent operators ran the units that closed. It’s no surprise that pizza franchises are popular choices for entrepreneurs who have the will to work, but lack a plan for action. Fox’s prepares franchisees for the rigors of such a competitive industry. Backing franchisees with a name and concept from the start is an advantage for anyone starting out in this business.
Company President Jim Fox says “I think we have experienced such a large growth this year because of one reason. I honestly feel that we have the best franchise opportunity in the country. What other franchise can an average person buy into that only has an $8000 franchise fee and a $200 per month royalty fee? Franchisee Mike Mitchell of Murrells Inlet, SC agrees, “I was attracted to Fox’s by the royalty – fixed rate.” Mike also adds that his store has helped others in his area to learn about the Fox’s system & has “ been responsible for two more Fox's being opened in South Carolina.” Fox adamantly states” I don’t care who the franchiser is; there is nothing they can do for you that’s worth a percentage of your sales. My feeling is that you as a new franchisee are the one taking all the chances, putting up your money, putting up your time. By God, I think you deserve to keep your profits!”
The company reports an impressive $128 million in sales for 2004. Attracting customers to the pizza den are unique items like the wedgies, a 9” pizza crust that sandwiches any of the fillings found in Fox’s hoagie line. The company also offers the Big Daddy with 21 slices & 2 square feet of pizza as a regular menu item. Unusual items such as these have become family favorites and have proven to be top sellers across the country. These unique items with their distinct flavor profile are made with pride by the franchisees. This has led to over 8 million pizzas & 7 million sandwiches being sold in 2004. All of the Fox’s units are franchised with 99% run by single store operators who strive to be part of their communities.
Fox reflects “ We have a great group of franchisees at the present, some of whom have 20 years or more in the Fox’s system. The quality of the franchisees determines the quality of the franchise system as a whole. It has been my pleasure working with them to help them achieve their entrepreneurial dreams.” Fox supports his 244 units with the addition of the Fox’s E-newsletter in 2004. Now franchisees can be immediately notified about industry happenings and what it means for them. An interactive web site has also been constructed to help train franchisees and lead them to success.
A Pittsburgh based company, Fox’s looks to the Mid-Atlantic States as their largest growth potential. The 34-year-old company already has 30 units signed to open in 2005. Although heavily concentrated in Pennsylvania, Fox’s expansion has gone in all directions: Las Vegas, NV, Lincoln, NE, Bradenton, FL and beyond. Fox assures us “we will continue to expand heavily in these new areas as word spreads of the low investment opportunity.”
