Having already conquered Scotland and Northern Ireland, restaurant group Tony Macaroni has set its sights on expanding the network into England and Wales.
When a Roman emperor called Hadrian built his wall approximately 1,900 years ago, it was an attempt to prevent those “troublesome tribes to the north” from invading his land. Life is generally more civilised nowadays, so it shouldn’t worry the English too much that premier restaurant group Tony Macaroni is seeking to extend its influence south of Hadrian’s Wall.
According to a recent press release from the company, managing director Sep Marini is keen to fulfil a long-held ambition of having “a Tony Macaroni restaurant on every high street throughout the UK.” To achieve this, the Glasgow-based company will need to expand its franchise network into England and Wales, having already made serious inroads to the markets in Scotland and Northern Ireland.
Tony Macaroni is part of the Viva Italia Group which also includes Mozza, Nardinis, and Wine House 1821. The brand enjoys a presence in many high streets, retail parks and shopping centres across Scotland and Northern Ireland. The company has already opened a total of 19 restaurants in these two UK countries, with five more set to be unveiled by the end of 2021.
And MD Sep Marini explained: “While 2020 has proved to be challenging for many brands, we have continued to enjoy success in Scotland and Northern Ireland, and we are now ready for the next chapter. We want to partner with the best operators in the country to help bring the Tony Macaroni brand to people all over England and Wales.
“Our brand is much-loved because we follow a formula that works. I firmly believe we can emulate this success the length and breadth of the UK, and achieve this dream in collaboration with experienced franchisees who can build themselves a fantastic business.”
Tony Macaroni opened its first restaurant in 2007 and they currently employ around 500 people across Scotland and Northern Ireland. Of the five new restaurants planned for opening later this year, two are in the Scottish capital Edinburgh, including one on Rose Street.
Despite the existence of Covid-19, Tony Macaroni increased its takeaway sales by 400% last year, while collecting awards for Best Pizzeria, Best Pizza, Best Independent Operator and Outstanding Business of Lockdown.
Sep added: “Over the past three years our menu has been redesigned, inspired and crafted by the Italian celebrity chef Fabio Campoli. This brings standardisation to all of our procedures, from preparation to service. This ensures consistent quality throughout our group as we plan our expansion. It’s perfect for franchising and is a real strong selling point.
“Tony Macaroni is a great affordable choice for every kind of occasion, so you can understand why our turnover has been so steady. I think ambitious operators are going to be excited by the potential to open a sizeable number of Tony Macaroni outlets in their chosen territory.
“It’s an exciting time for the industry, full of opportunity and some great deals to be done at desirable sites. The smartest operators are already taking full advantage of the current situation in the marketplace. There is less competition, cheaper rents and landlord incentives. Those acting now will be the big winners in five years’ time.”
About Tony Macaroni
It is the biggest independent operator in Scotland. It provides authentic Italian food at affordable prices, while offering a casual dining experience. It was launched by Sep Marini 14 years ago and is a regular winner at the annual awards ceremony organised by the Pizza, Pasta and Italian Food Industry. Among its many accolades are: Italian Restaurant of the Year 2018; Pizza Chef of the Year, from 2016 to 2018; as well as Pizza Chain of the Year for 2016.
