Marco's Pizza Posts Six Percent Sales Gain Over 2003 in Weak Economy; Attributes Gains to TV, Radio, Local Marketing

Monday, 01 December 2003 05:36

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TOLEDO, Ohio, Dec. 1 /PRNewswire/ -- Marco's Pizza, the 27-year-old pizza chain based here with 127 stores in Ohio, Indiana, Michigan and now Las Vegas, announced that system-wide sales increased by six percent for same store sales for the first 10 months of 2004 versus 2003.

"The largest major market gain was Cleveland/Akron where we recorded 16 percent increase for 2004 over the previous year," explained Jack Butorac, Jr., president of Marco's Franchising LLC, who purchased the franchising rights from Marco's founder Pasquale "Pat" Giammarco in January 2004. Giammarco remains with the organization in charge of product development and as the owner of Marco's stores in northwest Ohio.

Butorac, who announced plans to double the current number of stores since he acquired Marco's, said that the sales gains were the result of a number of factors and combination of efforts.

"There is no 'one' reason for growth, it is a combination of efforts," he said. "In a weakened economy, it is critical that our franchise owners maintain consistent marketing and advertising plans for future growth and expansion. Our franchise owners are also heavily involved in local school promotions which tie them in strongly with their communities." Butorac also pointed to radio and television advertising as a major factor in the sales gains.

"We have enhanced the on-going training program for existing franchise owners to ensure they are provided the necessary tools and information to maintain effective growth," he said. "Our introduction of the electronic media approach has been a huge success. In addition, our franchise support representatives have been with the company for many years and provide top quality service and support."

Marco's Pizza offers customers a variety of custom made pizzas, fresh baked subs, salads and soft drinks with carry out and delivery service. Additional information is at www.marcos.com.