
Elite Restaurant Group has initiated a significant step in their growth and restructuring plan for MOD Pizza, enlisting National Franchise Sales (NFS) to spearhead a comprehensive refranchising effort. This move is designed to strengthen MOD Pizza’s nationwide footprint and enhance its long-term profitability through the franchising model.
Acquired by Elite in July, the 512-unit fast-casual pizza brand, which was facing financial challenges, now finds itself in a strategic position for revival. Prior to the acquisition, MOD operated 423 company-owned locations, with an additional 89 franchised units. To stabilize its operations, the brand had closed 44 underperforming locations. Elite’s focus on refranchising aims to transition many of these company-owned units into the hands of motivated franchise operators, creating opportunities for growth and local market engagement.
As a trusted leader in franchise development and strategy, Star Brands Consulting Group views this move as a critical milestone for MOD Pizza. The decision to partner with NFS reflects Elite’s focus on selecting the right franchisees who can elevate the customer experience and contribute to MOD’s operational efficiency. NFS, known for its expertise in refranchising and asset recovery, brings the skills necessary to streamline this process and ensure smooth transitions for new franchise operators.
Michael Nakhleh, Elite Restaurant Group’s CEO, emphasized their commitment to MOD’s growth, highlighting how the refranchising initiative is part of a broader strategy to bolster the brand’s presence. According to Nakhleh, MOD’s operational enhancements will be paired with an expansion strategy that aims to elevate customer satisfaction. This aligns well with Star Brands Consulting Group’s philosophy of strengthening brands by leveraging franchise opportunities, improving operations, and partnering with motivated entrepreneurs.
As Elite looks to refranchise, they continue their pattern of acquiring financially distressed restaurant brands and transforming them into profitable ventures. Their portfolio includes brands such as Slater’s 50/50, Project Pie, and Marie Callender’s, though it remains unclear whether these are still under Elite’s ownership. MOD Pizza, a beloved brand known for its fast-casual dining experience and customizable pizza options, represents a key investment for Elite, one that could reshape its market position in the competitive pizza franchise sector.
For potential franchisees, the refranchising of MOD presents an exciting opportunity to become part of a resilient and beloved brand. Star Brands Consulting Group remains dedicated to guiding aspiring entrepreneurs through the complexities of franchising, ensuring that each opportunity is aligned with long-term success. With MOD’s established brand recognition and Elite’s focus on operational excellence, we anticipate this refranchising effort will open doors for experienced operators and first-time franchisees alike.
Star Brands Consulting Group is here to assist and guide potential franchisees as they explore this dynamic opportunity. Whether you’re an experienced operator or an entrepreneur ready to dive into the restaurant industry, our expertise ensures you are set up for success with a strong, forward-thinking brand like MOD Pizza.