Surprise, Arizona, December 22, 2025
Fazoli’s has opened its fourth restaurant in Phoenix’s West Valley, highlighting the region’s vibrant economic growth and attracting diverse businesses. This new location in Surprise, AZ, through local franchise Kind Hospitality, showcases the area’s commitment to business expansion. As corporate investments surge and retail infrastructure develops, the West Valley stands as a hub for economic activities and job creation, offering a supportive environment for both national chains and local enterprises.
Phoenix: Fazoli’s Latest Opening Underscores West Valley’s Economic Vitality
The spirit of enterprise is unmistakably vibrant in Phoenix’s West Valley, a region consistently demonstrating robust economic growth and an inviting environment for new business ventures. The recent opening of Fazoli’s fourth greater Phoenix restaurant in Surprise, Arizona, highlights a broader trend of companies recognizing and investing in the area’s potential for expansion and consumer demand. This Italian quick-service chain’s continued commitment to the Arizona market speaks volumes about the opportunities available for businesses, both large and small, that choose to establish or expand their presence in this dynamic part of the state.
For entrepreneurs and established companies alike, Phoenix offers a landscape ripe for development. The favorable business climate, characterized by a proactive approach to economic development, has attracted a diverse array of investments, fostering job creation and enhancing the quality of life for residents. This strategic growth is not merely incidental but a testament to the community’s entrepreneurial drive and the supportive conditions that encourage private investment and innovation across the region.
Fazoli’s Expands West Valley Footprint
Fazoli’s, a well-known quick-service Italian restaurant chain, has further cemented its presence in Arizona with the recent opening of its fourth location in the greater Phoenix area. The newest restaurant, featuring a convenient drive-thru, commenced operations on December 18, 2025, in Surprise, Arizona, at 13510 N. Litchfield Road. This establishment offers a range of popular menu items, including Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo, Baked Spaghetti with Meatballs, and their signature unlimited breadsticks.
The chain’s re-entry into the Arizona market began in February 2023, following a period where its 13 previous Arizona locations had closed in 2008. The current expansion is spearheaded by Kind Hospitality, a local franchise partner led by President and CEO Nava Singam. Under this partnership, Fazoli’s first street-side location opened in Mesa Riverview, followed by an outpost at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport in 2023. A third greater Phoenix area restaurant then opened in Glendale on 5825 W. Peoria Avenue in June 2024. Looking ahead, Kind Hospitality has plans for further expansion within Arizona, including a new location in Gilbert slated for spring 2026.
A Beacon of Growth: The West Valley’s Ascent
The West Valley continues to emerge as a significant economic engine within the larger Phoenix metropolitan area. This ongoing transformation is fueled by substantial population growth, considerable corporate investments, and a strong consumer base. This robust environment is attracting not just restaurant chains but a diverse range of businesses eager to capitalize on the region’s expanding opportunities. The development of new retail infrastructure, such as the Prasada Shopping Centers in Surprise and the Verrado Marketplace in Buckeye, exemplifies this growth, with both projects anticipated to open by 2026 and collectively add hundreds of thousands of square feet of retail space. Other large-scale developments like Laveen Towne Center and Halo Vista are also contributing to the retail boom, with initial phases expected between 2027 and 2028.
Major employers like Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. (TSMC) and Amkor Technology Inc. are establishing or expanding their presence in the West Valley, drawing thousands of workers and their families to the area. This influx of residents and economic activity creates a positive feedback loop, stimulating demand for various goods and services, and reinforcing the West Valley’s status as a burgeoning hub for commerce and community. The sustained investment by private entities is a clear indicator of confidence in the region’s future prosperity.
Diverse Businesses Choose West Valley for Expansion
Beyond the quick-service sector, the West Valley’s appeal is evident in the variety of businesses choosing to open or expand within its borders. Barrio Queen, a local Mexican restaurant chain, is planning its eighth Valley location in the West Valley. Cafe Rio, a Utah-based Mexican food chain, opened a West Valley location with a drive-thru in December 2019 [cite: original prompt]. Pickleman’s Gourmet Cafe also made its Arizona debut in the West Valley in November 2025 [cite: original prompt].
The region’s growth isn’t limited to dining. Black Rock Coffee Bar announced plans to open four new locations across metro Phoenix in August 2025, contributing to the growing array of consumer options [cite: original prompt]. In the grocery sector, WinCo opened a new store in Goodyear in January 2024, and Fry’s Food Stores launched a new Buckeye location in May 2021 [cite: original prompt]. Even more unique concepts, like Happy Joe’s, are establishing their first franchise locations in Surprise [cite: original prompt]. Local family-owned establishments are also thriving; Haymaker, known for its breakfast and burgers, is expanding with a new Buckeye location and relocating its North Peoria site. This diverse commercial activity, from national chains to local favorites, underscores the robust economic landscape that supports entrepreneurial endeavors and consumer choice.
Phoenix’s Pro-Business Environment Fosters Growth
The sustained economic momentum in the West Valley is a reflection of Phoenix’s broader pro-business environment. Greater Phoenix is renowned for its dynamic pace and a willingness to facilitate business operations, establishing itself as a top city for commerce. This environment is characterized by aggressive tax credits, targeted incentives, and programs designed to enhance access to capital, all contributing to a robust business climate. The region also boasts a competitive and skilled workforce, supported by graduates from local universities and community colleges, which provides a steady talent pipeline for expanding companies.
Moreover, Phoenix’s infrastructure offers reliable access to markets and consumers, with a vast network capable of reaching over 35 million consumers within a single-day truck haul. The city’s consistent job market growth, driven by an increasing population and the expansion of both new and established businesses, creates a positive cycle of economic development. This deliberate cultivation of an entrepreneur-friendly climate, through policies that attract businesses and foster job creation, is a key factor in the area’s ongoing success and the decision of many to invest in Phoenix’s future.
Investing in the Community’s Future
The continued influx of businesses into the West Valley, from fast-casual restaurants like Fazoli’s to major corporate operations, signifies a broader confidence in Phoenix’s economic future. This growth is a testament to the benefits of a market that values entrepreneurial innovation and provides a supportive framework for businesses to thrive. Each new establishment contributes to the local economy by creating jobs, expanding consumer choices, and fostering a more vibrant community.
As Phoenix continues its trajectory of economic expansion, it remains crucial for residents and stakeholders to actively support local businesses and engage in the ongoing dialogue about the city’s development. By doing so, the community can ensure that this growth benefits everyone, reinforcing Phoenix’s reputation as a prime destination for both living and doing business. The West Valley, with its burgeoning retail and employment sectors, stands as a prime example of how entrepreneurial spirit and a supportive environment can lead to significant and sustainable economic progress.
Frequently Asked Questions
- When did Fazoli’s open its new West Valley location in Surprise, AZ?
- Fazoli’s opened its new West Valley location in Surprise, Arizona, at 13510 N. Litchfield Road on December 18, 2025.
- How many Fazoli’s locations are currently in the greater Phoenix area?
- The Surprise location is the fourth Fazoli’s restaurant in the greater Phoenix area.
- Who is the franchise partner for Fazoli’s in the Phoenix market?
- Kind Hospitality, led by President and CEO Nava Singam, is the franchise partner for Fazoli’s in the Phoenix market.
- What other areas in Arizona are Fazoli’s planning to expand into?
- Kind Hospitality plans further Arizona expansion for Fazoli’s, including a new location in Gilbert in spring 2026.
- What are some other businesses expanding in the West Valley?
- Other businesses expanding in the West Valley include Barrio Queen, Cafe Rio, Pickleman’s Gourmet Cafe, Black Rock Coffee Bar, WinCo, Fry’s Food Stores, Happy Joe’s, and Haymaker. [cite: original prompt, 14]
- What drives economic growth in Phoenix’s West Valley?
- Economic growth in Phoenix’s West Valley is driven by significant population growth, corporate investments, and strong consumer demand. Major employers like Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. (TSMC) and Amkor Technology Inc. are establishing footholds, bringing thousands of workers.
Key Features of West Valley Economic Development
| Feature | Description | Scope |
|---|---|---|
| New Fazoli’s Location | Fourth greater Phoenix area restaurant opened in Surprise, AZ, at 13510 N. Litchfield Road on December 18, 2025, featuring a drive-thru and core Italian menu items. | Local |
| Fazoli’s Arizona Expansion | Returned to Arizona in February 2023. Prior locations include Mesa Riverview, Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (2023), and Glendale (June 2024). Further expansion planned for Gilbert by spring 2026. | State-level |
| Franchise Partner | Kind Hospitality, led by Nava Singam, is the multi-unit franchise partner for Fazoli’s in the Phoenix market. | Local |
| West Valley Retail Growth | Significant retail transformation with major shopping centers like Prasada Shopping Centers (Surprise) and Verrado Marketplace (Buckeye) opening by 2026. Additional projects include Laveen Towne Center and Halo Vista. | Local |
| Corporate Investment | Major employers such as Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. (TSMC) and Amkor Technology Inc. are establishing or expanding operations, attracting thousands of workers to the West Valley. | Local |
| Pro-Business Environment | Greater Phoenix offers a dynamic, pro-business climate with competitive workforce, aggressive tax credits, incentives, and strong infrastructure. | Local |
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Author: STAFF HERE PHOENIX WRITER
The PHOENIX STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREPhoenix.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Phoenix, Maricopa 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 the Waste Management Phoenix Open, Cactus League Spring Training, and Arizona State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce and Visit Phoenix, plus leading businesses in technology and healthcare that power the local economy such as Intel and Banner Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERETucson.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Arizona's dynamic landscape.
