Tony Macaroni

About Tony Macaroni

Established in 2007 and part of the 30-strong Viva Italia Group, Scottish casual dining brand Tony Macaroni operates 13 restaurants across Scotland and employs more than 300 people. In October 2025, Tony Macaroni told Propel it is targeting an “initial wave of around ten sites, then scaling steadily with an average of 15-20 openings per year” after launching a franchise programme. Tony Macaroni is now inviting experienced operators and entrepreneurs to join its next chapter of expansion throughout the UK by signing up as franchisees.

Hansaka Gunarathna, head of marketing for Viva Italia Group, told Propel: “We are hoping to land in one of the major English cities first, with northern England looking like a strong early contender. Our model works well in high footfall areas, so we are open to opportunities in other key regions across the UK too. The priority for our UK-wide growth is franchising, with the first franchise location targeted for early 2026. Alongside that, we will continue to invest in a small number of company-owned sites in Scotland where it fits our wider strategy.

“In the first year, the focus will be on signing the right partners and opening an initial wave of around ten sites, then scaling steadily with an average of 15-20 openings per year as the network matures. The emphasis is on sustainable, well supported growth, rather than the number of restaurants.” The group is also behind Mozza, Bar 1821, The Wine House 1821, Nardini’s Café and Tony2Go.

Why franchise with Tony Macaroni

• ✓The franchise opportunity includes an initial franchise fee of £20,000 plus VAT, a royalty fee of 6% of turnover, a marketing fee of 3% of turnover, and a total investment range of £300,000 to £1,000,000 plus VAT (depending on size and location). The franchise models are suitable for city centres, shopping malls and retail parks. The franchise package includes comprehensive training, launch support, centralised purchasing and ongoing operational and marketing assistance from Tony Macaroni’s head office team.
• ✓The company said a Tony Macaroni franchise offers a proven multi-site UK restaurant model; is designed for high turnover and repeat business; has a broad customer appeal and all-day dining concept; works across dine-in, takeaway and delivery; and is backed by an experienced hospitality group.
• ✓Managing director Sep Marini added: “Our goal is to make Tony Macaroni accessible to more communities across the UK. We have built a business model that combines operational simplicity with a menu people genuinely love. The addition of our rewards app, online ordering and digital marketing gives franchisees modern tools to attract and retain loyal customers. It’s an exciting time to invest in a business that’s proven, profitable and forward-thinking.”

Investment breakdown