The franchisee, Devinder Paul Thind, brings experience and enthusiasm to Pizza Pizza's first outlet in Manitoba. Prior to joining Pizza Pizza, Paul managed a pizza chain location also in the Winnipeg area for some five years.

With the help of local entrepreneurs like Paul, Pizza Pizza has steadily advanced its Canada-wide expansion plans. This includes recent openings in Delta, British Columbia, Regina and Swift Current, Saskatchewan and several new stores in Montreal, Quebec. The company's Pizza 73 brand, a leader in Alberta with select western operating markets, is also opening additional locations in Alberta and Saskatoon, Saskatchewan.

"Since 1967, thanks to quality food and value, Pizza Pizza has been attracting the interest of franchise owners across the country," said Pat Finelli, chief marketing officer for Pizza Pizza and Pizza 73. "Our growth plans have been successful thanks to this warm welcome from entrepreneurs who are seeing a business opportunity in our brand and franchise. We are happy to have Paul and his team leading our effort to deliver that same quality and value in Manitoba."

The new traditional restaurant provides a bright and warm interior, well-trained staff, extensive menu and, according to the new owner, great value.

"Manitobans perceive Pizza Pizza as a quality option," said Paul. "Our research and experience to date with the company proves that value is also a driver behind the success of Pizza Pizza."

The owner has hired close to 20 full and part-time local staff in preparation for the opening. The menu features a wide variety of choices that reflects Pizza Pizza's award-winning menu including a gluten-free crust, signature pizzas and over 38 toppings.

"Based on my in-depth training experience at Pizza Pizza University, it's clear to me that this is an organization dedicated to its people," said Paul. "Who wouldn't want to jump on board with an organization like that?"

Pizza Pizza is continuing its expansion plans and invites local entrepreneurs who are interested in franchise opportunities to contact the company for more information.

About Pizza Pizza Limited

Founded in 1967, Pizza Pizza Ltd. is an industry pioneer and the number one pizza chain in the Canadian Quick Service Restaurant industry according to sales and restaurant locations. With its Pizza Pizza and Pizza 73 banners and an extended team comprising more than 3,000 people, the company plays an active role in the communities it serves through fundraisers, donations and local sponsorships at the corporate and franchise levels. The company is guided by a mission to provide the "best food, made especially for you" and a focus on quality ingredients, customer service, community contribution and continual innovation. Some of the innovations developed or expanded upon by Pizza Pizza Ltd. include: insulated delivery bags (1967), a one number system (1967), 11-11 telephone jingle (1975), double-decker pizza boxes (1985) and gluten-free dough (2008). Visit www.pizzapizza.ca/history for more information.