Domino's aims for bigger slice of small town pizza business

General manager Josh Kilimnik said outlets succeeded when they were owned by a local identity who would get involved with the community. Photo / APN

Domino's Pizza is expanding into small towns throughout New Zealand and general manager Josh Kilimnik says the company is looking for people to take on a franchise in towns such as Mosgiel, Mt Maunganui, Feilding, Tokoroa, Huntly, Mana, Queenstown, Oamaru, Bishopdale, Ashburton and Rangiora.

"We're one TV market here. People in the regional markets see [TV commercials] but don't get to try the product."

Kilimnik said the amount of money required to invest would vary depending on location and the type of premises selected.

People did not necessarily have to have ever owned a business but experience would help. A lot of training would be provided and Kilimnik said: "If you have the right attitude we can make a good franchisee out of you."

Each franchise would generate about 15 jobs, although Kilimnik said some employed more. Whangarei had 40.

Kilimnik said outlets succeeded when they were owned by a local identity who would get involved with the community.

Domino's franchise development manager Rian Bell said: "We have found that our most successful regional stores are the ones that are owned and operated by locals because they already have a great insight into the local businesses in their area and have a great feel for the community."

The chain is also looking to expand in some areas of Auckland.

Domino's Pizza Enterprises and its franchisees have 564 stores in New Zealand and Australia, employing more than 16,000 part-time and fulltime staff and making more than 60 million pizzas a year.