Sunoco is among the companies involved in a 40-unit deal in Michigan with Toronto-based PizzaForno, which makes automated pizza machines.
This expansion includes a Sunoco convenience store in Clarkston and Oakland Mall in Troy and Mott College in Flint—as well as two units at an Amazon Distribution Center in Grand Rapids (pictured).
Accessible 24/7 via digital screens, PizzaForno offers a variety of pizzas, the company said. Through the PizzaForno app, users can check inventory, place orders and reserve pizzas for pickup.
“On the heels of a remarkable year of growth, PizzaForno is excited to launch a number of new units throughout the state, strategically positioned to enhance customer accessibility,” the company said.
PizzaForno’s 40-unit development deal with Forno Brothers LLC is set to bring 10 more units in 2025, with the remaining to open by 2026, the company said.
- Sunoco, Dallas, is No. 96 on CSP’s 2024 Top 202 ranking of U.S. convenience-store chains by store count.
Jason Lowder, master licensee of Michigan and chief marketing officer of PizzaForno, brings extensive experience as a former vice president at Marco’s Pizza and a successful multi-unit franchisee, PizzaForno said.
“Being such a strong part of a brand that is revolutionizing the pizza experience is incredibly fulfilling,” Lowder said. “Our rapid growth is a testament to the quality and innovation we bring, and I’m excited to share that with our local communities.”
PizzaForno is poised for rapid growth and plans to have 1,000 operating units by 2027, the company said. The brand is focusing on expanding into campuses and other unconventional locations, leveraging its technology to serve diverse markets.
“This is a monumental moment for PizzaForno as we take a significant step into Michigan,” said Les Tomlin, cofounder and president of PizzaForno. “I look forward to not only making a lasting impact here but also expanding our reach into many more states and Amazon distribution centers in the near future.”
The launch of PizzaForno units at the Amazon Distribution Center in Grand Rapids marks a significant milestone, blending cutting-edge technology with convenient dining options,” PizzaForno said. “This opening symbolizes a meeting of two innovative industries, where automated pizza solutions cater to the fast-paced needs of a modern workforce.”
Founded in 2018 by Canadian entrepreneurs William Moyer and Les Tomlin, PizzaForno sells the automated PizzaForno machines that make a pizza in less than 5 minutes. Accessible 24/7 at the tap of a digital screen, PizzaForno offers a selection of pizza options. PizzaForno has more than 70 locations, more than 100 additional locations committed in the U.S. and more than 30 U.S. locations already established in California, Georgia, Florida, Delaware, Michigan, Virgina, Alabama, Texas, Mississippi and Louisiana.
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