Little Caesars Pizza plots return to UK market with 'several' new openings planned

The US brand, which currently operates in 27 countries and territories globally, will open the first restaurant in its latest UK expansion drive next month in Chellaston, Derby. 

This will be followed by two sites in London and another in Liverpool, which will all launch early in the new year.

“As we continue to expand around the world, we are thrilled to bring Little Caesars Pizza and our globally recognised value, quality and convenience to the UK,” says Paula Vissing, chief operating officer for Little Caesars Pizza.

“The UK is an important new market for us given how influential it is. We expect to open several new sites in this market over the next few years, and we are excited to be entering with such strong franchisee groups in Derby, London, and Liverpool.”

Little Caesars, which is based in Detroit and originally launched in 1959 as a single, family-owned restaurant, previously made a play for the UK market in the mid-1980s and at its peak had about 18 sites across the country. 

However, the business eventually wound down its UK operation in the year 2000 having failed to gain a substantial foothold in the territory.

Today, Little Caesars claims to be 'the third largest pizza chain in the world' based on net number of sites, with more than 4,000 locations worldwide with an annual turnover of around $4bn.

In recent years the brand has grown its international presence with restaurant openings in Europe, as well as the Middle East, Asia Pacific, Latin America, the Caribbean, and Canada. And it plans to continue expanding throughout Europe, with a specific focus on the UK.

“The UK pizza industry is valued at more than £2.5bn and is expected to continue growing year-over-year,” says Jeremy Vitaro, chief development officer for Little Caesars Pizza.

“Now is the time to capitalise on that growing momentum. We are seeking additional franchisees who are interested in entering into area developer agreements in London as well as other regions, including southern England, Scotland, and Ireland.”

The Little Caesars UK menu will include a range of large 12-inch pizzas with toppings including 'mushroom deluxe'; Italian sausage and bacon; pepperoni; and margherita.

It will also feature Little Caesars' 'signature' Crazy Bread - pizza dough straws coated with garlic salt, butter, and Parmesan cheese.