TOP 10

Units : 1,425 Franchised : Yes 2014 Gross Sales : $ 785 million

Of the top 5 largest pizza chains , Vancouver-based Papa Murphy ’ s stands out for its unique “ take-andbake ” business model . Unlike most major chains who specialize in takeout or delivery pizzas that are fully cooked and ready to eat , Papa Murphy ’ s offers handassembled pizzas that consumers can take home and bake themselves . It has struck a significant chord with those who want a “ semi-homemade ” dinner , combining the convenience of takeout but the satisfaction of coming hot and fresh out of their own oven .

www . papamurphys . com

Units : 3,940 Franchised : Yes 2014 Gross Sales : $ 2.9 billion

Little Caesars has grown massively since its inception in 1959 , finding new life in its $ 5 “ hot and ready ” carry-out alternative to the pizza industry ’ s delivery norm . To stay fresh and competitive , the chain has been experimenting with new flavors and variations on its classics — late last year Little Caesars sparked a pretzel crust pizza trend , and this February the brand launched an especially bold bacon-wrapped deep dish . www . littlecaesars . com

28 February 2015