Tony Macaroni seeking franchise partners for restaurant expansion

Italian restaurant group Tony Macaroni is looking to expand across the UK by franchising in England and Wales.

The Glasgow-based chain was founded in 2007 and has grown to 19 sites across Scotland and Northern Ireland.

A further five restaurants, two of which are in Edinburgh, are due to open by the end of the year.

Managing director Sep Marini is seeking franchise partners to take the brand to town and cities further south as part of an ambition for Tony Macaroni restaurants to be on every high street across the UK.

"We want to partner with the best operators in the country to help them bring the Tony Macaroni brand to people all over England and Wales," said Marini.

"Our brand is much-loved throughout Scotland, because we follow a formula that works. I firmly believe we can emulate this success the length and breadth of the UK with experienced franchisees who can build themselves a fantastic business."

Tony Macaroni's menus include sourdough pizzas, burgers and pasta dishes starting from £5.95. The group saw a 400% increase in takeaway sales last year and currently employs around 500 people.

The brand is part of the Viva Italian restaurant group that includes the Mozza, Sardinians and Wine House 1821 brands.