The duo have formed a company called Foglia di Fico Produzioni (Fig Leaf Productions) to expand the Franco Manca business and also the Rocca pizza concept as well as other formats.
Page and Mascoli are two of about 35 shareholders in the business, which Page describes as a “co-operative”. The consortium also includes Sami Wasif, who previously owned a 55 per cent stake in Hakkasan.
Page, who was most recently executive chairman of Clapham House Group prior to its sale to Nando's Group, was keen to play down his role in the business.
He said: “Every one of the shareholders brings something to the business but Guiseppe is in charge - he's the boss.
”This isn't necessarily about creating a big brand. The product will be the king and it may be that we open restaurants under different names.”
Expansion
Page is expected to help the group find new properties. Its expansion will initially focus on London.
To that end, the collaborative is thought to have lined up three openings for Franco Manca - at Westfield, Brick Lane and Covent Garden. It currently has restaurants in Chiswick and Brixton.
The group is also set to unveil a second Rocca, in Dulwich. It currently operates one restaurant in Fulham.
Mark Stretton is editor of BigHospitality's sister publication, M&C Report.