California Pizza Kitchen is expanding its consumer packaged goods (CPG) business with new product categories and wider international distribution, including partnerships in Latin America and Asia.
In the US, the casual dining chain plans to broaden its frozen food range beyond pizza to include appetizers and entrees inspired by items on its restaurant menu.
The products are currently in early-stage development and are expected to begin rolling out in grocery stores nationwide early next year.
CPK has also extended its partnership with Nestlé to distribute its frozen pizzas across Mexico, Central America, South America and the Caribbean.
The FMCG giant will oversee marketing and distribution, with shipments expected to begin later this quarter and a phased retail rollout planned to place CPK products on grocery shelves in select markets by mid-year.
“We’re proud to expand our collaboration with California Pizza Kitchen and introduce its distinctive flavors to additional markets,” said Holly Honroth, senior brand manager at Nestlé.
“CPK has built strong global brand recognition, and we see a meaningful opportunity to grow the frozen pizza portfolio across Latin America and the Caribbean.”
Beyond the Americas, the company is also increasing its retail footprint in Asia following the launch of its frozen pizzas in Taiwan last year. Its BBQ Chicken Pizza is available at all Costco warehouses in the market, with additional products expected to follow.
California Pizza Kitchen is also preparing to enter Japan in the coming months, with plans to expand into the Shanghai region of Mainland China afterwards.
Michael Beacham, president of CPK global, said the company is working to evolve its portfolio beyond pizza and expand ito global markets.
“We’re working with world-class partners to ensure product quality, consistency and thoughtful market entry,” said Beacham.
“This is about scaling the brand in a way that preserves what makes CPK distinctive while accelerating growth.”
- Further reading: California Pizza Kitchen acquired, enters next phase of growth.
