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Cottage Inn Pizza, the 76-year-old Michigan-based pizza chain, is experiencing a renaissance under the leadership of Christina Narra. With decades of tradition behind it, Cottage Inn is embracing a new chapter of growth and innovation, making it a standout in the competitive quick-service pizza industry.
A New Vision for Cottage Inn Pizza
In August 2023, attorney and hospitality executive Christina Narra acquired Cottage Inn Pizza, leaving her role as executive vice president at Premier Hospitality to take the helm of the then-54-location chain. Since her arrival, the number of locations has expanded to 65, with eight more restaurants under construction. “We’re building up a lot of new momentum,” Narra shared, reflecting on the brand’s transformation from stagnation to an upward trajectory.
Honoring the Past While Building the Future
Founded in 1948, Cottage Inn Pizza has been a staple of Ann Arbor and the surrounding areas. Narra has high praise for the previous owners, the Michos and Petropoulos families, whose decades-long dedication laid the groundwork for today’s success. “They got it this far, and they did an incredible job,” she said, highlighting the loyalty within the franchise system.
Narra’s focus now is on modernization, with updates to operational procedures, enhancements in franchisee training, and streamlined supply chain efficiencies to reduce costs and improve profitability.
What Sets Cottage Inn Pizza Apart?
Cottage Inn positions itself as a gourmet pizza provider in the quick-service category. With freshly made dough, proprietary cheese and sauce blends, and premium ingredients, the brand delivers on its promise of superior quality.
“The products that we use are a step above what the competition uses,” said Narra. “And I think you can taste it.”
Empowering Franchisees for Success
Cottage Inn’s franchise program is designed to attract passionate owner-operators who are committed to running successful businesses.
One example is J.D. Witherell, who began his journey as a delivery driver and now serves as vice president of franchise sales and development. Earlier this year, Witherell and his partner, Jim Comiskey, opened a new location in Grand Rapids, Michigan, with plans to expand to five units.
“The growth and the opportunity are incredible,” Witherell said. “There’s a lot of money to be made.”
Franchise opportunities include a pizza and pub model, which incorporates alcohol sales, and an express model for select franchisees. The cost to open a Cottage Inn ranges from $216,000 to $500,000.
Innovative Concepts Drive Growth
Driven by fresh leadership and dynamic growth strategies, Cottage Inn Pizza is embracing innovation to outpace competitors in the quick-service industry. A key initiative under this revitalized direction is the launch of the first dual-brand restaurant, combining Cottage Inn Pizza with the newly developed concept, Tina’s Chicken. This exciting location, opening in Rochester, Michigan, showcases the brand’s commitment to diversification and innovation.
Under Christina Narra’s guidance, Cottage Inn is evolving with bold ideas while preserving its legacy of quality. By introducing forward-thinking concepts like dual-brand locations, the iconic chain is setting a foundation for sustained success and broader market reach.
Expansion with a Purpose
Under Christina Narra’s new leadership and growth strategy, Cottage Inn Pizza is focused on expanding its footprint without compromising quality. The immediate goal is to saturate all viable markets in Michigan, followed by targeted growth in Ohio and Indiana, where the brand already has a small presence.
Narra emphasizes a “quality versus quantity” approach, ensuring the right franchisee partnerships and premium real estate selections. “You find the most success with people that really put their heart into it and care about the success of that business,” she said. This dedication strengthens the brand and ensures sustainable growth as Cottage Inn builds on its 76-year legacy.
Join the Cottage Inn Pizza Revolution
With a renewed focus on quality, innovation, and franchisee empowerment. Cottage Inn Pizza is paving the way for a bright future. Whether you’re a pizza lover or a prospective franchisee, now is the time to experience the excitement of a brand on the rise.
For more details, visit the original article on Franchise Times.