HotBox began an aggressive franchising campaign in October of this year to expand the popular brand.
"We are proud to announce the sale of our very first franchise," said Gabe Connell, owner of HotBox Pizza. "We created HotBox Pizza to fill the gap between the bland, big chains and the neighborhood gourmet pizza restaurants. With locations already Downtown, in Broad Ripple, Fishers and Lafayette, a new store in Carmel makes perfect sense."

Two well-known local restaurateurs plan to open two HotBox Pizza franchises in Carmel, Ind. within the next 18 months. Pete Watson, a franchisee of Buffalo Wild Wings and operator of 14 Indiana locations, is partnering with Steve Wechter, owner of Famous Jack's Burgers 'n Brew, to open their first HotBox Pizza in early January 2009. The new franchise will serve the same eclectic selection of pizzas HotBox is known for, including the Hot Chick, the Big Cheese and Porky the Pie. Salads, beer and wine will also be added to the Carmel menu.

"We are excited to open the first HotBox Pizza franchise and to serve the Carmel community through fast delivery, quick pick-up, and a great dining atmosphere," said Watson. "It's a prime opportunity for us to extend the HotBox experience and to work with local schools and community groups through the HotBox Pizza Fundraising Program."

Watson and Wechter will feature upgraded décor in the Carmel HotBox location, as well as several flat screen TV's so that customers don't miss their favorite sporting events. "We are looking forward to giving the Carmel community not only the popular HotBox pizza and breadstix they've come to know in Indiana, but also a fun, casual atmosphere to watch the Hoosiers, Boilermakers, Colts and other favorite athletic teams. We can't wait to deliver the HotBox experience and attitude to Carmel."

The first Carmel HotBox location will be at 1 East Carmel Drive (on the corner of Carmel Drive and Rangeline Road). No location has been determined for the second location. For additional information on HotBox Pizza and franchising opportunities, please visit, http://gethotboxpizza.com/ .