Kahala Corp. Enters Pizza Market

Kahala Corp., the Scottsdale-based franchisor of Cold Stone Creamery, Blimpie and Samurai Sam's, is entering the pizza business.

The company recently opened its first Pizza Fresh Take-N-Bake store in north Phoenix and expects to open a second one in Mesa next month.

Kahala's foray into the competitive pizza market is aimed at busy families who want to take something home for dinner or a snack, said Steve Evans, the company's senior director of marketing.

Pizza Fresh allows customers to select from three sizes, four sauces and numerous toppings. It also offers a "light" option, with one-third fewer calories and fat than its traditional pizza. The pizzas are assembled to order for the customer to bake at home.

"We make our dough fresh every day. You walk into our store, and everything is made for you and in front of you," Evans said. "You take it home, slide it into the oven, and it's ready in 12 to 17 minutes." In addition to pizza, the stores sell hot wings, garlic cheese bread, salads and desserts.

The first Pizza Fresh opened at 748 E. Bell Road in Phoenix about two weeks ago. The second is set to open soon at 1940 S. Val Vista Drive, in Mesa's Dana Park retail center. Its grand opening is set for Aug. 13.

The first two Pizza Fresh stores are corporate-owned, but the goal is to have franchisees own and operate stores nationwide, Evans said.

Kahala still is developing a timeline for the national rollout and declined to discuss what markets are being targeted beyond Phoenix.

"We see this concept as a growth opportunity in the take-and-bake category. This is something that is unique from a delivery or pickup pizza," Evans said. "This gives the customer something that is freshly made, and our research shows there is a high demand in this food segment."

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