Charlotte NC, February 16, 2026
Donatos Pizza is set to expand its presence in North Charlotte through a multi-unit franchise agreement led by local entrepreneur Mitch Bratton. This initiative highlights the area’s strong economic growth and entrepreneurial spirit, with plans for new locations commencing with the first restaurant slated to open in Huntersville by 2026. The expansion will not only enhance local dining options but also create jobs and contribute positively to Charlotte’s economy.
Charlotte: Donatos Pizza Fuels North Charlotte Growth
New Franchise Agreement Signals Confidence in Local Economy
Charlotte, NC continues to demonstrate its vibrant economic appeal, attracting new business ventures and reinforcing its status as a hub for entrepreneurial activity. A recent development sees Ohio-based Donatos Pizza entering into a new multi-unit franchise agreement for the Charlotte area, spearheaded by local entrepreneur Mitch Bratton. This expansion underscores the power of individual initiative and private investment in fostering regional economic growth and enhancing community offerings, aligning with Charlotte’s impressive recent track record in business recruitment and job creation.
The city’s dynamic environment, characterized by a growing population and robust economic development, provides fertile ground for businesses seeking to expand. The decision by Donatos Pizza to deepen its roots in North Charlotte, through a dedicated local franchise group, reflects a broader trend of confidence in the region’s prosperity and the efficacy of local entrepreneurial spirit to drive success. Such investments contribute to job creation, diversify local amenities, and enhance the overall quality of life for residents, proving that a thriving business ecosystem benefits everyone.
A Local Entrepreneur’s Vision for North Charlotte
The new multi-unit franchise agreement brings Donatos Pizza to the North Charlotte region, with Mitch Bratton and his team leading the charge. The initial plans include opening a location in the Huntersville area by the close of 2026. This initiative is more than just a business transaction; it represents a personal commitment by a local entrepreneur to bring a valued brand back to the community.
Mitch Bratton first became acquainted with Donatos Pizza around 2019, frequenting a previous location in the SouthPark area that has since closed. His positive experience inspired him to take the lead in reintroducing the franchise to Charlotte, highlighting a common narrative where personal connection and belief in a product drive significant business ventures. This kind of entrepreneurial determination is a cornerstone of a healthy local economy.
Strategic Expansion Across the Charlotte Market
Beyond the initial Huntersville opening, Mitch Bratton’s team aims to establish several additional Donatos Pizza locations throughout the broader Charlotte market. Their expansion strategy targets key growth areas, including regions stretching from Mooresville to Waxhaw and SouthPark. This systematic approach to growth not only broadens consumer access to the brand’s offerings but also signifies a substantial private investment in diverse Charlotte neighborhoods.
This new agreement marks Donatos Pizza’s second multi-unit franchise group within the Greater Charlotte region. The brand already has an established presence with a location in Fort Mill, operated by a separate ownership group that is also looking to expand in the South Carolina portion of the Charlotte market. Furthermore, Donatos Pizza maintains a partnership with Red Robin, where its pizzas are featured on the menu at Red Robin establishments, including those in the Charlotte region and across North Carolina. This multi-faceted expansion strategy underscores the brand’s commitment to the Tar Heel State.
Donatos Pizza’s Statewide and Nationwide Footprint
Donatos Pizza, an Ohio-based company, is actively pursuing further franchise agreements to solidify its standalone presence throughout North Carolina. The brand is targeting high-priority markets for expansion across the state, including Raleigh-Durham, Wilmington, Fayetteville, Greensboro, and Asheville, with aspirations to add over 25 new units. This State-level expansion demonstrates a broader confidence in North Carolina’s economic landscape and its capacity to support significant business growth.
Nationwide, Donatos Pizza has a substantial footprint, operating more than 179 stores. Additionally, its products are available in nearly 300 non-traditional locations nationwide. Other reports indicate the brand operates over 459 locations across 28 states, comprising more than 175 traditional restaurants and nearly 300 non-traditional venues. In 2023, Donatos had 444 locations across more than half of the U.S., including 173 traditional restaurants, nine sports and entertainment venues, and one REEF Kitchen. The partnership with Red Robin alone encompassed 261 locations Nationwide. This extensive reach highlights the company’s strong operational model and the appeal of its franchise opportunities.
Economic Impact and Job Creation
The development of new Donatos Pizza locations by Mitch Bratton’s team in North Charlotte represents a tangible economic benefit to the community. Each new restaurant typically involves an initial investment ranging from $391,500 to $750,747, which includes a $30,000 franchise fee. An average Donatos store occupies approximately 2,000 square feet and employs around 30 primarily part-time associates. The average unit volume Nationwide exceeds $1.29 million. These figures illustrate the direct economic injection and job creation that accompany such franchise agreements.
Charlotte’s overall economic environment is highly conducive to such growth. In 2025, Charlotte experienced its most successful year for business recruitment in a decade, securing 15 project announcements that are projected to generate 3,880 new jobs and attract over $424 million in investment. Furthermore, Charlotte ranked second nationally in job creation among metro areas in 2025, adding 37,600 jobs, a figure that, on a per-population basis, surpassed even New York City. The city’s economic development office projects this positive momentum to continue into 2026.
Specific sectors contributing to Charlotte’s rapid job growth include healthcare, engineering, and construction, which are bolstered by the region’s increasing population. Charlotte has significantly benefited from an influx of new residents from across the country. The Charlotte Regional Business Alliance has also reported record-breaking growth, with more than 7,000 jobs and $1.4 billion in potential investment, noting the positive impact of transit expansion on businesses. The city’s commitment to supporting small businesses and entrepreneurs is further demonstrated through initiatives like the “Corridors of Opportunity,” which provide business hubs and resources in key neighborhoods to spark economic growth.
A Recipe for Community and Economic Vitality
The expansion of Donatos Pizza in North Charlotte, led by Mitch Bratton, is more than just the arrival of a new dining option; it’s a testament to the enduring power of local entrepreneurship and the positive economic climate in our region. This private investment, driven by an individual’s vision, contributes directly to job creation and provides new opportunities for residents. As Charlotte continues its impressive trajectory of economic growth and business recruitment, it reinforces the importance of fostering an environment where small businesses can thrive and personal achievements are celebrated.
We encourage our readers to support the diverse range of local businesses that contribute to Charlotte’s dynamic economy. Staying engaged with our community’s economic future, whether through supporting local establishments or participating in civic initiatives, helps ensure Charlotte remains a beacon for opportunity and growth for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions about Donatos Pizza’s Expansion in Charlotte
- What is the latest development regarding Donatos Pizza in Charlotte?
- Ohio-based Donatos Pizza has signed a new multi-unit franchise agreement in the Charlotte area with local entrepreneur Mitch Bratton and his team.
- When and where will the first new Donatos Pizza location open in Charlotte?
- The first new Donatos Pizza location is planned for the Huntersville area by the end of 2026.
- Are there plans for more Donatos Pizza locations in the Charlotte area beyond Huntersville?
- Yes, Mitch Bratton and his team plan to open several additional locations in the Charlotte market, focusing on regions stretching from Mooresville to Waxhaw and SouthPark.
- Does Donatos Pizza have any other presence in the Greater Charlotte region?
- Yes, this new agreement marks Donatos Pizza’s second multi-unit franchise group in the Greater Charlotte region. There is also one location currently open in Fort Mill, operated by a separate ownership group, which is seeking expansion in the South Carolina region of the Charlotte market. Donatos Pizza also partners with Red Robin, with its pizzas available on the menu at Red Robin locations, including in the Charlotte region.
- What is the typical investment and job creation for a Donatos Pizza restaurant?
- The initial investment to own and operate a Donatos restaurant typically ranges from $391,500 to $750,747, which includes a $30,000 franchise fee. An average store is approximately 2,000 square feet and employs around 30 primarily part-time associates. The average unit volume Nationwide exceeds $1.29 million.
Key Features of Donatos Pizza’s Charlotte Expansion
| Feature | Detail | Geographic Scope |
|---|---|---|
| Franchise Partner | Mitch Bratton and his team | Charlotte Area |
| First Location Opening | Huntersville, by end of 2026 | North Charlotte |
| Planned Expansion Areas | Mooresville, Waxhaw, SouthPark | Charlotte Market |
| Current Charlotte Area Locations (standalone) | One in Fort Mill (separate ownership) | Greater Charlotte Region |
| Donatos-Red Robin Partnership | Pizzas on menu at Red Robin locations | Charlotte Region, North Carolina |
| Statewide Expansion Target | Over 25 additional units in Raleigh-Durham, Wilmington, Fayetteville, Greensboro, Asheville | State-level |
| Initial Investment Range (franchise) | $391,500 to $750,747 (includes $30,000 franchise fee) | Nationwide |
| Typical Jobs per Store | Approximately 30 primarily part-time associates | Nationwide |
| Total Traditional Stores | More than 179 (or over 175, or 173) | Nationwide |
| Total Non-Traditional Locations | Nearly 300 (or nearly 300, or 9 sports and entertainment venues, 1 REEF Kitchen) | Nationwide |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Author: HERE Charlotte
The CHARLOTTE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERECharlotte.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Charlotte, Mecklenburg County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Lovin' Life Music Festival, Charlotte Pride festival, and major sporting tournaments at Bank of America Stadium. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Charlotte Regional Business Alliance and Foundation for the Carolinas, plus leading businesses in finance and entertainment that power the local economy such as Bank of America and NASCAR. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HEREGreensboro.com, HERERaleigh.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
