A major multi-unit expansion is underway at Marco’s Pizza, as an existing franchisee has committed to a 12-unit development agreement, strengthening the brand’s footprint across Southern California.
The deal has been signed by experienced multi-unit operator Baljit Gill, building on an earlier four-unit agreement that has already translated into operational momentum in the region.
Gill currently has three Marco’s Pizza locations open in Upland, Fontana and Hesperia, with two additional outlets in Yucaipa and Highland in development. The remaining units under the new agreement are in the site selection phase, signalling a steady pipeline for expansion.
“As a multi-unit operator, you look for a brand that combines structure with opportunity,” said Gill. “Marco’s offered a strong foundation, robust support, and a team that truly partners with franchisees.”
Gill’s move reflects a broader diversification strategy. After starting his franchising journey with Subway in 1998, his family has developed more than 30 units and currently operates 21 Subway locations along with an Auntie Anne’s outlet in Southern California.
The Marco’s partnership is being run as a family-led operation, with Gill’s daughter leading the brand’s day-to-day operations while he focuses on strategic and back-end functions, leveraging his engineering background to drive operational discipline.
From the franchisor’s perspective, the deal underscores its preference for experienced, growth-oriented partners. “Baljit exemplifies the type of experienced, growth-minded operator we’re proud to partner with,” said Gerardo Flores, Chief Development Officer at Marco’s Pizza. “His disciplined approach and deep understanding of multi-unit operations position him for strong growth.”
Headquartered in Toledo, Ohio, Marco’s Pizza operates more than 1,200 stores across the U.S. and international markets and continues to position itself as a scalable franchise platform with strong unit economics and support systems.
The latest agreement aligns with the brand’s wider development push, which includes plans to open over 80 new locations in 2026, with California emerging as a key growth market for multi-unit franchise expansion.
