Little Caesars has brought its pizza to the heart of Michigan State University, marking a new chapter in its growth strategy. The brand recently launched operations at Spartan Stadium, with additional locations set to open at the Munn Ice Arena and the Breslin Center. The partnership aligns the pizza chain with MSU athletics and strengthens its presence in a high-traffic, community-driven environment.
The initiative is being led by Derek Turowski, a veteran franchisee with more than 16 Little Caesars restaurants across Michigan. Turowski, an alumnus of MSU’s School of Hospitality Business, sees the project as a personal milestone as well as a business opportunity. “As an MSU alumnus, I am elated to bring Little Caesars to campus,” he said. “This is about more than pizza. It is about being part of the community and enhancing the game day experience.”
Turowski’s path in the restaurant industry began early, learning from his family’s business before building his own network of Little Caesars locations. His leadership of the university venues is intended to bring consistency and quality to foodservice operations while reflecting the values of the local community. His deep ties to MSU add a personal dimension to the rollout, which blends professional experience with alumni pride.
On the corporate side, the expansion reflects a larger strategy. Bryan Ketelhut, Vice President of Franchising and Business Development for Little Caesars, described the partnership as a natural extension of the brand’s reach in Michigan. By placing the chain inside MSU’s most visible sports venues, the company is strengthening its connection with fans while creating opportunities for brand visibility well beyond its traditional restaurant footprint.
The collaboration also points to a wider trend in franchising: the pursuit of nontraditional venues as a way to diversify growth. Sports arenas, universities, and event centers offer both captive audiences and brand association benefits. For Little Caesars, the move into Michigan State University is not just about serving pizza. It is a test case in how a national brand can integrate into the fabric of a community while exploring new platforms for expansion.
