Regional Pizza Chain Expands in Walmart

Mr Gatti’s Pizza (Fort Worth, Texas) has unveiled plans to open outlets in 92 Walmarts in four states: Texas, Louisiana, Oklahoma and Kentucky. The first of those eateries will open later this year in 12 stores across North Texas and Southern Oklahoma.

In its coverage of Gatti’s move, The Street.com noted that Walmart has long offered nationally available fast-food options in-store from restaurants like McDonald’s, Subway, Charleys Philly Steaks, Domino’s, Taco Bell and Wendy’s. But in recent times, it’s also begun to offer more localized and specialized food offerings for different palettes. Last fall, for example, Walmart started putting Uncle Sharkii Poke Bowl shops in several West Coast locations. And now comes the Gatti’s deal.

“… Walmart approached us about a partnership because it recognized Mr Gatti’s as a regional favorite with a 55-year legacy of delivering exceptional taste and experiences to our customers,” said Jim Phillips, CEO of Mr Gatti’s Pizza. “We’ve been vocal for years now about our ambitious growth goals, and this partnership with Walmart enables us to accelerate our expansion into new areas while continuing to strengthen our presence in familiar communities, bolstering our legacy for long-term success, one slice at a time…”

TheStreet also noted that each in-store Gatti’s location will be a mini version of a traditional pizza shop model, ranging in size from 800 to 1500 square feet. Most Mr. Gatti’s standalone shops, by contrast, are 12,000 to 16,000 square feet and feature interactive games and arcades.

Mr Gatti’s new Walmart locations will feature a new design, offering counter service and seating for customers to enjoy a variety of menu items including pizzas, wings, salads, sandwiches and more.

The Walmart partnership brings Mr Gatti’s network to more than 230 locations open or in development.