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Franchisee team honored for standout performance and philanthropic efforts.
Marco’s Pizza, one of the nation’s fastest-growing pizza brands, announces multi-unit franchisee partners, Brandon Hudson and Damion Mason, as the recipients of the International Franchise Association’s (IFA) prestigious Franchisee of the Year Award. The annual recognition honors a select group of franchisees who have demonstrated excellence within the franchise community as outstanding franchise establishment owner-operators.
The Franchisee of the Year Award recognizes leading franchise owners from IFA member brands whose outstanding performance and contributions help protect, enhance, and promote the franchise business model.
Nominated by their parent company, individuals are selected for their involvement in their communities, embodying the entrepreneurial spirit, fostering a strong and healthy culture with their workforce, and assisting their fellow franchisees when called upon.
“As entrepreneurs, this recognition goes beyond personal achievement; it symbolizes the limitless possibilities for success and growth when you follow your dreams,” says Hudson.
Marco’s Pizza Rooted in Entrepreneurship
After spending several years in their own ventures, college roommates, Hudson and Mason turned their 20-plus year friendship into a successful business partnership with Marco’s. As self-proclaimed pizza connoisseurs, Marco’s Pizza had already become a household staple with their families, and the decision to join the brand was simple.
After six years, the duo and their team are on a path of rapid growth with seven locations open and eleven in various stages of development.
“Brandon and Damion’s journey with Marco’s Pizza embodies the essence of our brand—passion, community, and entrepreneurial spirit,” says Tony Libardi, Co-CEO and president of Marco’s Pizza.
“Their dedication to excellence, coupled with a commitment to community empowerment, has not only contributed to the success of their franchise locations, but also serves as an inspiration to us all.”
Key to the duo’s success is building relationships with the communities they serve, and giving back through empowering minority entrepreneurship. As Black entrepreneurs, their hope is to demonstrate that successful Black entrepreneurship is achievable.
“We are truly honored to receive the Franchisee of the Year award and represent Marco’s Pizza. Our mission is to inspire the next generation of Black entrepreneurs, and show that together, with passion, dedication, and a commitment to community, we can continue to achieve greatness.”
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Matthew Haller, president and CEO of the International Franchise Association adds, “We are proud to recognize Brandon and Damion with the highest honor IFA awards to franchisees, and I have no doubt their work is changing lives and making a lasting community impact.”
In addition to franchisee acknowledgement, the brand’s impressive performance has earned multiple awards and recognition: Ranking in Newsweek’s 2023 America’s Best Customer Service in the pizza chains category, earning a spot on QSR’s Top 50, appearing on Nation’s Restaurant News’ prestigious Top 500 ranking, and most recently claiming the No. 48 spot on Entrepreneur’s 2024 Franchise 500® ranking.
For more information on Marco’s Pizza franchise opportunities, visit the website or contact Beth Heminger at bheminger@marcos.com, 866-731-8209.
