Donatos Pizza, the Ohio-based franchise celebrated for its signature Edge to Edge® pizzas, is deepening its presence in the Southeast with an ambitious expansion into the Carolinas. The company has announced plans to develop more than 50 new locations across North Carolina and South Carolina, a move that signals its confidence in the region’s thriving food service and franchising sectors. With established roots through Red Robin restaurant partnerships and several standalone stores, Donatos is looking to capitalize on growing demand for premium, handcrafted pizza.
In North Carolina, Donatos pizzas are already available inside 16 Red Robin restaurants, giving the brand a head start with local diners who have grown familiar with its generous toppings and consistent quality. South Carolina features four Red Robin locations that serve Donatos, along with four traditional restaurants in Summerville, Boiling Springs, West Ashley, and Fort Mill. This existing presence provides a strong platform for new franchisees eager to bring a proven brand to markets with high consumer appetite for fast-casual dining experiences.
According to Jeff Baldwin, Vice President of Development and Franchising, the opportunity is ripe for entrepreneurs seeking a recognizable, scalable concept. “This is an incredible opportunity for franchise owners,” Baldwin said. “With our backing and the enthusiasm of our fans, we’re confident that local entrepreneurs can build something special while bringing our Edge to Edge® pizza to even more communities.” His remarks reflect Donatos’ growing emphasis on community-based franchising and its commitment to franchise support systems that prioritize quality and operational consistency.
The Carolinas’ appeal extends beyond consumer enthusiasm. The International Franchise Association has identified North Carolina as one of the fastest-growing states for franchise development, fueled by a favorable business climate and population growth. This environment aligns closely with Donatos’ model, which pairs operational expertise with strong brand equity developed through its long-standing partnership with Red Robin.
Kevin King, President and CEO of Donatos, emphasized that this next phase of growth builds on the brand’s steady expansion beyond its Columbus, Ohio, roots. “Our relationship with Red Robin has helped strengthen brand awareness in the region,” King said. “Now we’re excited to take the next step by opening more traditional Donatos locations and connecting directly with communities throughout the Carolinas.”
By combining its established reputation with local entrepreneurial drive, Donatos is setting the stage for a meaningful chapter in its national growth story. The company’s latest move reflects a strategic balance of ambition and experience, serving both as a business opportunity for franchisees and as a promise of more pizza nights to come for families across the Carolinas.
