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Pizza Delight

Pizza Delight is a Canadian chain specializing in , , and Italian-inspired dishes, originating as a small operation in Shediac, , in 1968. The chain was initially established by Léandre Bourque and Allard Robichaud, who opened the first location focused on and . Within a year, it was acquired by Bernard Imbeault and two associates, who expanded it into a full-service family dining concept and franchised the brand starting in the early 1970s. Under Imbeault's leadership, Pizza Delight grew into a prominent eastern Canadian eatery, emphasizing affordable, hearty meals in a casual setting; he served as president until 2019 and passed away in 2020. As of 2024, Pizza Delight operates approximately 70 locations across five provinces—, , , , and —primarily in , with head offices in , . The menu features signature pizzas made with fresh dough, dishes, salads, skillets, donairs, panzerotti, naan'wiches, and starters like cheese fingers and wings, alongside options for dine-in, , , and . Family-oriented with kids' menus and lunch programs, the chain is now part of ., maintaining its roots as a proudly Canadian brand.

History

Founding and early years

Pizza Delight was established in 1968 in Shediac, , as a small restaurant by Léandre Bourque and Allard Robichaud. One year later, in 1969, the business was purchased by Bernard Imbeault, a recent graduate of the , along with two associates, marking a pivotal shift in its trajectory. Under Imbeault's leadership, the company began refining its offerings. Imbeault and his partners introduced a franchise system in the early 1970s, enabling controlled expansion while maintaining quality standards. This model facilitated initial growth from the single Shediac outlet to multiple franchises throughout during the decade, capitalizing on regional demand for affordable, family-style Italian fare. By the mid-1970s, the chain had established a presence with over 200 outlets under Pizza Delight and affiliated brands, solidifying its foothold in the region. Pizza Delight Corporation Ltd. was formed in , , to oversee operations, , and distribution, with Imbeault serving as its driving force. He played a key role in cultivating a family-oriented Acadian dining tradition, emphasizing communal meals and local engagement that resonated with the cultural fabric of . Imbeault remained actively involved until his death on April 21, 2020, at age 75, after a long battle with .

Expansion and diversification

During the 1990s, Pizza Delight experienced significant growth through its franchise system, expanding from its roots to establish a presence across . By 2000, the chain had proliferated to 180 locations operating in seven Canadian provinces, reflecting aggressive efforts that capitalized on regional demand for casual dining. Diversification efforts began earlier but accelerated in the late with strategic acquisitions of complementary brands. In the late , Pizza Delight expanded by incorporating Pizza Patio Management Ltd., a Vancouver-based operator with outlets in and even , adding variety to its pizza-focused model. By the mid-1980s, Pizza Patio locations were converted to Pizza Delight franchises. By 2000, the company had also taken ownership of Roi, a chain, as well as 2-for-1 Pizza, a value-oriented pizza brand in , thereby broadening its portfolio to include non-pizza casual dining options. These moves allowed Pizza Delight to appeal to diverse customer preferences while maintaining operational synergies. A pivotal milestone came in 2000 with the $14.5 million acquisition of Mikes Restaurants Inc., a Quebec-based chain with 118 locations, which significantly expanded Pizza Delight's footprint beyond into and . This deal not only doubled the company's size but also introduced Italian-inspired casual dining to its offerings. Further growth in the mid-2000s included the 2005 purchase of Scores, a sports bar and grill concept, and the 2006 acquisition of Bâton Rouge, a brand, enhancing the group's appeal in upscale casual segments. In 2007, reflecting its evolved multi-brand structure, the parent company renamed itself from Pizza Delight Ltd. to Imvescor Restaurant Group Inc., encompassing brands like Mikes, Scores, and Bâton Rouge alongside the core Pizza Delight operations. This rebranding underscored the shift from a single-concept chain to a diversified . Additionally, Imvescor introduced licensed products, granting third parties rights to manufacture and sell prepared foods—such as frozen pizzas and pasta—under the Pizza Delight brand in grocery stores, extending the brand's reach into retail channels.

Acquisition and modern era

In March 2018, acquired Imvescor Restaurant Group Inc., the parent company of Pizza Delight, in a cash-and-stock transaction valued at $248 million. The deal, which closed following and regulatory approvals, brought Pizza Delight under MTY's expansive umbrella alongside other Imvescor brands such as Scores and Bâton Rouge. Following the acquisition, Pizza Delight was integrated into MTY's portfolio, which encompasses over 80 restaurant brands operating more than 7,000 locations globally. The brand has retained operational independence, continuing to function as a distinct with its own management and regional focus, while benefiting from MTY's broader resources for and support. Since reaching a peak of 180 locations across seven provinces around 2000, the chain has experienced a decline, contracting to approximately 70 outlets (67 as of November 2024) by late 2025, concentrated primarily in . In recent years, Pizza Delight has navigated contemporary challenges and opportunities, including a GST/HST tax holiday from December 14, 2024, to February 15, 2025, which exempted meals from and made orders temporarily tax-free. A minor incident occurred in July 2025, when New Glasgow Regional investigated an fire that damaged the Pizza Delight location on East River Road in New Glasgow, Nova Scotia. As of 2025, Pizza Delight operates as a of MTY Group Inc., with its headquarters remaining in Moncton, .

Operations

Franchise system

Pizza Delight introduced its franchising model in the early 1970s under the leadership of Bernard Imbeault, who acquired the company in 1969 and emphasized accessible opportunities for local Acadian entrepreneurs in to foster regional economic growth through small-scale investments in pizza restaurants. As of 2025, prospective franchisees must meet specific financial requirements, including an initial investment ranging from CAD $350,000 to $550,000, a of $40,000, ongoing royalty fees of 6% of gross sales, and contributions to advertising funds totaling 4.5% of sales (3% national and 1.5% local). The company provides comprehensive support to franchise operators, including assistance with in target markets, comprehensive programs covering operations and , centralized ensuring fresh ingredients and daily dough preparation, and coordinated marketing campaigns encompassing both national branding and local promotions. Pizza Delight operates a predominantly franchised structure, with approximately 90% of its locations managed by independent operators, many of which are family-run businesses that align with the brand's emphasis on community-oriented, mid-scale family dining. As of late 2024, the chain had 67 locations. Following its acquisition by in 2018 through the purchase of parent company Imvescor Restaurant Group, the model has evolved to leverage shared resources across MTY's portfolio of over 90 brands, enhancing efficiency in areas such as purchasing, legal services, , and operational expertise to support franchisee success. No significant changes to the Pizza Delight brand's location count were reported in MTY's 2025 financial updates.

Geographic presence

Pizza Delight maintains a strong regional focus within , with the majority of its locations concentrated in , encompassing , , , and . As of November 2024, the chain operates 67 restaurants across five provinces, with 61 locations (approximately 91%) in these Atlantic provinces: 33 in , 13 in , 11 in , and 4 in . The remaining six locations are in , reflecting a limited presence outside the Atlantic region. The distribution includes a blend of urban and rural sites, with many restaurants positioned in smaller communities to support local family-oriented dining. This strategy aligns with the chain's origins in the small town of Shediac, , and ongoing efforts to expand in underserved Atlantic areas such as Cape Breton and . Historically, Pizza Delight expanded aggressively to reach seven provinces by 2000, achieving a peak of 180 locations, including presences in and other areas beyond its core markets. However, economic challenges following the and subsequent pressures led to a contraction post-2010, refocusing operations on and . As of late 2024, with 67 locations in total, the chain remains exclusively Canadian, without any international outposts, solidifying its status as a regional institution.

Menu and services

Core offerings

Pizza Delight's core menu revolves around its signature pizzas, crafted daily with fresh dough, a proprietary homemade sauce, and high-quality toppings to emphasize authentic Italian-inspired flavors. The original option allows for a crispy base that highlights the sauce and ingredients, with varieties including classic , Hawaiian featuring , , crumbled , and extra , and vegetarian options loaded with tomatoes, onions, mushrooms, , , black olives, and green peppers. Complementing the pizzas are hearty pasta dishes such as with meatballs, layered , and creamy , typically served alongside for a complete . These entrees utilize fresh and sauces made from quality ingredients, with portions designed for family sharing, often accommodating 2-4 people. The menu also includes donairs, panzerotti, naan'wiches, and skillets as entrees. Recent additions as of September 2025 include Spicy Arrabbiata, Creamy , and & pastas. The menu also features fresh salads like Caesar, appetizers including breaded wings and garlic cheese fingers topped with , and desserts such as chunk cookie skillets or crunch options. Nutritionally, as of July 2025, a typical 12-inch pizza slice ranges from approximately 200 to 350 calories depending on toppings, while dishes like with meatballs total around 956 calories per serving. Appetizers such as six breaded wings provide about 380 calories, and desserts like a chunk cookie skillet total around 1,100 calories. Allergen information is available upon request, with common concerns including , , and nuts across menu items.

Dining experience

Pizza Delight provides a casual, dining atmosphere, featuring cozy interiors with comfortable booths ideal for groups and gatherings. The restaurants emphasize a welcoming, relaxed setting that encourages meals and celebrations, complete with kid-friendly menus offering options like bites served with dipping sauces and fries, alongside small pizzas and desserts for children under 10. This design aligns with the chain's roots as a hub in , where locations maintain clean, bright spaces conducive to everyday dining. The service model centers on full-service dine-in experiences, complemented by robust and options available through online ordering. Customers can enjoy table service for , , and in-restaurant, while and accommodate busy lifestyles, with partnerships facilitating app-based orders post-2020. Special promotions enhance the visit, including family deals like the & Duo and weekday lunch buffets featuring unlimited bars at select locations, providing value for group outings. As an Acadian institution founded in Shediac, , in 1968, Pizza Delight holds cultural significance in , serving as a staple for local traditions and family events. During the , the chain adapted by prioritizing enhanced , delivery, and contactless options to ensure safety, measures that persist into 2025 alongside dine-in recovery.

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