Columbus, Ohio (Jan. 28, 2026) — Donatos Pizza is entering 2026 with an expansion strategy centered on automation, new market growth, and leadership investment. The move follows a year marked by robotic restaurant launches and technology-driven delivery pilots.
The Ohio-based pizza chain confirmed continued development across East Coast and Southeastern markets. The company expanded its footprint in 2025 with new locations in Panama City, Florida; Washington, D.C.; and South Bend, Indiana.
The company said its recent growth has been supported by investments in robotics, operational technology, and menu innovation aimed at strengthening franchise performance and scaling in high-traffic locations such as airports and university campuses. Donatos operates more than 175 traditional stores and nearly 300 non-traditional locations nationwide, including select Red Robin restaurants.
An official announcement from the company highlighted that automation remains central to its strategy as it moves into the new year. According to Jeff Baldwin, vice president of development and franchising at Donatos Pizza, the brand views its expansion as a validation of its operating model.
Baldwin said the company’s recent performance reflects sustained franchise demand and a focus on targeted markets. He added that Donatos is positioning itself to expand into additional communities while maintaining operational consistency across locations.
Automation and menu innovation drive strategy
In 2025, Donatos introduced its first fully autonomous, robot-operated restaurant at John Glenn Columbus International Airport, offering a 24/7 made-to-order pizza experience using advanced robotics designed for speed and precision in high-volume environments.
The brand also partnered with The Ohio State University to pilot autonomous pizza delivery vehicles, testing last-mile delivery concepts aimed at improving convenience and efficiency.
Alongside its technology investments, Donatos appointed Hayley Kianoff Satler as director of menu innovation. Satler previously spent more than a decade in product innovation roles at Wendy’s. The company said her role will focus on adapting to emerging consumer trends while maintaining brand consistency.
Company leadership framed these developments as part of a long-term strategy rather than short-term experimentation. CEO Kevin King noted that recognition from industry groups reflects the company’s internal culture and external growth.
King said the brand’s focus on purpose-driven leadership and people-first operations continues to shape its expansion approach heading into 2026.
Industry context: automation meets franchise growth
Donatos’ expansion comes as restaurant brands experiment with robotics, AI-driven kitchens, and non-traditional locations such as airports, stadiums, and campuses. Chains including White Castle, Sweetgreen, and Chipotle have tested similar technologies to streamline operations and improve order accuracy.
The move also aligns with rising franchise interest in concepts that reduce labor dependency while maintaining consistent output. Airport and travel hubs, in particular, have become prime environments for automated foodservice due to staffing challenges and extended operating hours.
Why it matters
Donatos’ strategy highlights how mid-sized restaurant chains are using automation and innovation to compete with larger national brands. By combining robotic restaurants, autonomous delivery pilots, and disciplined geographic expansion, the company is positioning itself at the intersection of technology adoption and franchise scalability. The approach reflects a broader industry shift toward operational efficiency while testing how consumers respond to technology-led dining experiences.
Editor’s note: Source86 perspective
For food manufacturers, ingredient suppliers, and private-label partners, Donatos’ expansion illustrates how restaurant brands increasingly depend on supply chains that can support innovation at scale. Restaurant operators are placing greater emphasis on consistency and reliability as they adopt new technologies.
Robotics-driven operations require steady ingredient sourcing and strong quality assurance programs. They also demand production precision to meet consumer expectations. This is especially important in high-volume environments such as airports and universities.
At Source86, we work with food brands and private-label manufacturers to support bulk-ingredient sourcing, FSQA oversight, co-manufacturing, and R&D collaboration. As automation reshapes foodservice, reliable supply partners will play a critical role in helping brands grow while maintaining product integrity and operational efficiency. Let’s talk.
FAQs
Donatos has launched a fully autonomous, robot-operated restaurant at John Glenn Columbus International Airport and is piloting autonomous delivery vehicles in partnership with The Ohio State University.
The company is focusing on East Coast and Southeastern U.S. markets following recent openings in Florida, Washington, D.C., and Indiana.
Donatos operates more than 175 traditional stores and nearly 300 non-traditional locations nationwide, including partnerships with Red Robin.
External source: Donatos Pizza Heats Up 2026 With Groundbreaking Innovation and National Momentum
