1000 Degrees heads for Malaysia

US pizza company 1000 Degrees Pizzeria has chosen Malaysia as its first international market.

The company said it would open its first pizza outlets in Kuala Lumpur, later this year in Kuala Lumpur, the federal capital, with an unidentified local partner.

1000 Degrees says while Malaysia will be its first international market outside its US home base, talks are already underway with potential partners in Panama City, Qatar and Dubai.

“We are excited to bring our spin on traditional Neapolitan Pizza, served in a fast-casual environment to the citizens of Kuala Lumpur,” said a company spokesman.

“We feel as if this city, which is experiencing tremendous growth, is ready for something new in the name of pizza.”

1000 Degrees has grown rapidly during the past six months and expects over 60 franchisees to be signed by the end of third quarter of 2015.

The franchise was started in northeastern US, but quickly has gained traction in 16 of the 50 states.

The spokesman said Malaysia was chosen for its international debut because it was “an exciting place” and the company is working with “an exciting group of experienced operators” in Kuala Lumpur.

1000 Degrees offers both single and multi-unit operators an opportunity to serve what they feel is the best pizza in the nation, for as little as $250,000 per unit.