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A bigger slice of the pie: Boston Pizza has experienced impressive growth over the past 10 years. With a strong franchise model, public investment and plans for more expansion in eastern Canada and the U.S., the future looks friendly too.

Article Excerpt
The first time Mark Pacinda saw a Boston Pizza restaurant, it was a cold day in Edmonton. At that time, he hadn't yet joined the company and all he could think about was a common misperception--"why would an American chain open up out here when they're not even in Toronto?"

Pacinda could be forgiven for the confusion. In fact, Boston Pizza International Inc. first opened its doors 41 years ago in Edmonton, founded by Greek immigrant Gus Agioritis. The company has come a long way since then: two changes in ownership and the growth of a franchise that is now a significant player in the casual dining market across Canada. Pacinda is now the president of the chain, works out of an office in Mississauga, Ont., and oversees the growth of the brand across Canada.

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It took Boston Pizza 32 years to open its first 100 locations but only eight years to grow its next 100 units. With 40 restaurants already opened in Ontario and 60 more franchises sold and waiting for good real estate, this growth should continue apace. At the same time, the company has plans for expansion in the U.S., where it currently has 17 restaurants. What makes Boston Pizza unique?

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Franchisee focus

Boston Pizza International (BPI) is something of an anomaly in the casual dining market in Canada. In the past, this mid-market niche was mostly filled with regional players--Earls out west, East Side Marios and Jack...