Food Chain - Issue 206 - June 2025 | Page 176

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“ Over the years, we’ ve come to work in a diverse range of markets. It all started in Hartlepool in 2006, with our first Domino’ s Pizza franchise. We worked to establish our network of Domino’ s locations for ten years before branching out into other brands. We learned about different industries, built up our network, re-strategized, and expanded.
“ Once we had several brands in operation, it made sense to rebrand as Racz Group. This is an umbrella term, which brings all the different aspects of our identity together. Each brand had a unique purpose and vision for the future— with Racz Group, everyone is united by the same values and goals. Whether we’ re selling pizza, coffee, or digital services, we remain dedicated to customer service and excellence above all else.”
Drive and determination
For 18 years, Racz Group has strategically expanded in towns and cities across the North-East of England. As Mike details:“ When I opened my first store in Hartlepool, I’ d never even been there before in my life. I could have opened another Domino’ s in Manchester, but I felt like the city was already full. Smaller towns and cities would see a new local pizza chain as more of a draw. From there, my mission was to invest in areas that were often overlooked by major brands.
“ I enjoyed the challenge and the opportunity to build something new. Investing in locations like Hartlepool helps bring jobs and opportunity to the area, and the business itself becomes a part of the local community. The work is very rewarding, you can look at the before and after and really see the impact that’ s been made.
“ From that first location, we picked up steam. We’ ve continued to grow, and our long-term strategy is to continue
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