East Lansing, Michigan, September 30, 2025
News Summary
Little Caesars has announced a partnership with Michigan State University to operate restaurants at major sports venues on campus, including Spartan Stadium. The collaboration aims to enhance the fan experience at athletic events by providing convenient dining options. Managed by experienced franchisee Derek Turowski, Little Caesars will also seek multi-unit franchise operators for further development in various non-traditional venues. This partnership aligns with Little Caesars’ commitment to quality, value, and community engagement, particularly through initiatives like Love Kitchen, which supports local needs.
East Lansing, Michigan—Little Caesars, the third-largest pizza chain in the world, has announced a partnership with Michigan State University (MSU) to operate restaurants at three major sports venues on campus. The brand debuted at Spartan Stadium during the Spartans’ season-opening football game on August 29, 2025. The fast-food pizza franchise will set up operations at Spartan Stadium, Munn Ice Arena, and Breslin Center, providing fans with convenient dining options during athletic events.
Derek Turowski, a seasoned franchisee and MSU alumnus, will manage all Little Caesars restaurants at these venues. With over 16 locations across Michigan, Turowski is also developing a new restaurant in Holt, Michigan. He brings a wealth of experience, having begun his career in the restaurant industry working alongside his father and later graduating from Michigan State University’s School of Hospitality Business.
The partnership is viewed as a natural fit for the Michigan-based Little Caesars to better connect with the Spartan community. Bryan Ketelhut, the Vice President of Franchising and Business Development at Little Caesars, noted the alignment between the brand’s values and the university’s spirit, particularly in catering to the green-and-white fans of MSU.
Beyond this collaboration, Little Caesars is actively seeking qualified multi-unit franchise operators for further development in non-traditional venues such as universities, water parks, airports, and stadiums. These franchising opportunities extend across various regions in the U.S., including the Northeast, Pacific Northwest, Kansas City, New Orleans, and North and South Carolina.
Little Caesars has a rich history, built over 65 years of family ownership while focusing on quality, value, and convenience in its offerings. Franchisees benefit from a well-integrated supply chain, innovative menu options, and flexible restaurant formats that cater to diverse markets.
The company maintains a strong commitment to community support through initiatives like Love Kitchen®, which has provided over 4 million meals nationwide. Additionally, the brand offers incentive programs for veterans and first responders, further solidifying its dedication to community engagement.
Key Features of the Partnership
- Partnership: Little Caesars teams up with Michigan State University.
- Locations: Restaurants will operate at Spartan Stadium, Munn Ice Arena, and Breslin Center.
- Management: Derek Turowski, an MSU alumnus and experienced franchisee, will oversee operations.
- Franchising Opportunities: Little Caesars is seeking multi-unit operators for growth in various venues.
- Community Commitment: Little Caesars supports local initiatives through programs like Love Kitchen®.
Background Context
Little Caesars has been a staple in the pizza industry for decades, founded in 1959 and standing as the third-largest pizza chain in the world today. The brand has a reputation for providing quality and convenient pizza options at accessible prices. Its connection to local communities is further enhanced through active charitable efforts and initiatives designed to benefit those in need.
The decision to open restaurant locations within athletic venues comes at a critical time, aiming to enhance the fan experience for MSU sports enthusiasts. The partnership with the university exemplifies Little Caesars’ strategy of targeting high-traffic areas where their value proposition of quality and convenience can resonate strongly with consumers.
FAQ
What is the partnership between Little Caesars and Michigan State University?
Little Caesars has announced a partnership with Michigan State University (MSU) to operate restaurants at three major sports venues: Spartan Stadium, Munn Ice Arena, and Breslin Center.
When did Little Caesars officially debut at MSU?
The brand officially debuted at Spartan Stadium during the Spartans’ season-opening football game on August 29, 2025.
Who is managing the Little Caesars restaurants at MSU?
Derek Turowski, a seasoned Little Caesars franchisee and MSU alumnus, will operate all the restaurants at these venues.
How long has Little Caesars been in operation?
Little Caesars has over 65 years of family-owned history, focusing on quality, value, and convenience in its offerings.
What community initiatives does Little Caesars support?
Little Caesars maintains a commitment to community focus through programs like Love Kitchen®, which has served over 4 million meals nationwide.
Key Features Summary
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Partnership | Little Caesars partners with Michigan State University. |
| Locations | Spartan Stadium, Munn Ice Arena, Breslin Center. |
| Management | Derek Turowski will oversee the operations. |
| Franchising | Opportunities for multi-unit operators in various venues. |
| Community Commitment | Active initiatives supporting local communities, including over 4 million meals served via Love Kitchen®. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Michigan State Triumphs in ‘Duel in the D’ Hockey Match
Additional Resources
- PR Newswire: Little Caesars Expands Its Footprint with MSU Partnership
- Wikipedia: Little Caesars
- DBusiness: Little Caesars Expands to MSU Athletic Venues
- Google Search: Little Caesars Michigan State University
- MSU Spartans: Men’s Basketball Returns to Detroit
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Michigan State University
- Golden Grizzlies: Oakland Falls to MSU at Little Caesars Arena
- Google News: Michigan State University Basketball
Author: STAFF HERE NOVI WRITER
The NOVI STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERENovi.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Novi, Oakland County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Motor City Comic Con, Michigan State Fair, and Novi Home and Garden Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Novi Chamber of Commerce and Novi Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in automotive, technology, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as Gentherm, Stoneridge, and Daifuku North America. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREDetroitMI.com, HEREGrandRapids.com, HERENorthville.com, and HEREPlymouth.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Michigan's dynamic landscape.
