Eagle Boys has developed a new store model for small towns as part of its expansion strategy which will see the pizza brand with 400 Australian stores operating across all its store models by 2011.

The new range of franchised stores will be established in towns with a population of between 2500 and 5000. The stores will have a smaller store footprint, open from 4.30pm to 9pm daily with an optional delivery service. The stores offer the full Eagle Boys menu, with pizzas available on one traditional-style base.

Stores are open already at two locations in Queensland and two in New South Wales, with another 12 stores planned for the end of 2008.

Eagle Boys managing director Todd Clayton said: “Apart from requiring a smaller investment from franchisees, the new store model is profitable because it has smaller occupancy costs, requires less staff, and has a lower sales break-even point. Many of our existing franchisees with stores in larger regional centres have already expressed interest in establishing these smaller stores in towns in the same region.

“We have already identified over 100 opportunities for local store models and are looking for franchisees across the country to seize these very profitable opportunities.”

In June 2008, Eagle Boys Pizza was named the nation’s 2008 Supreme Retailer by the National Retail Association and received the Best Franchise award for the second consecutive year.