Blaze Pizza Opening New Valley Location

CALIFORNIA — Blaze Pizza is expanding in Southern California, with five new locations planned west of Los Angeles.

The pizza chain is partnering with franchisee Red Phoenix Group LLC to expand the eatery across the upper San Fernando Valley, Ventura and Santa Barbara, with the first two locations set to open in 2025.

“Blaze is entering its next phase of growth and, as the category leader, we offer a tremendous advantage in the fast casual space,” CEO Beto Guajardo said in a news release. “We’re thrilled to partner with an experienced, successful, multi-unit group like Red Pheonix Group, LLC to continue the momentum into next year.”

Blaze’s business model focuses on allowing diners to customize their pizza with over 45 ingredients such as roasted garlic, artichokes and plant-based chorizo. Headquartered in Atlanta, Blaze has more than 300 restaurants across 38 states and three countries.

Red Phoenix is run by second-generation restaurant owners Ray Luthra and family, who are current Wingstop franchisees and have experience with brands like Denny’s, Del Taco, Nékter Juice Bar and 7-Eleven.

“As we explored options to diversify our holdings, Blaze Pizza stood out as a top choice — we’re fans of the product and know it’s best-in-class,” Luthra said in the news release.