Scooters Pizza, once a household name in South Africa, has officially made its long-awaited comeback, reopening in Melville, Johannesburg, on Tuesday.
This marks the brand’s return after nearly a decade-long absence, and it brings back its iconic 39-minute delivery guarantee.
The relaunch is spearheaded by Juan Engelbrecht, one of the brand’s original expansion partners.
“People have always asked when Scooters would return. The appetite for a proudly South African pizza brand is still there, and we’re ready to deliver again – literally,” Engelbrecht said at the launch.
Fast. Familiar. Local.
Founded in 2000 by Carlo Gonzaga, Scooters Pizza quickly carved out a niche with speedy service, quirky branding, and a delivery promise that sometimes resulted in free pizza if drivers missed their 39-minute target.
By 2006, the brand had over 100 stores, becoming one of the fastest-growing pizza franchises in the country.
But in 2014, Scooters vanished from the local market when its holding company, Taste Holdings, pivoted to the American giant Domino’s Pizza.
Many Scooters stores were converted, and by 2016, the homegrown brand was officially liquidated.
Ironically, Domino’s later also exited South Africa, leaving a gap that Scooters is now poised to fill once again.
What’s New (and What’s Back)
The new flagship store at 4 Main Road, Melville, offers both classic menu favourites and new additions.
To celebrate the relaunch, Scooters is running:
- Opening specials
- A 39-minute all-you-can-eat challenge
- And the return of its delivery deadline guarantee
Engelbrecht confirmed the brand will resume its franchise model, with applications now open for aspiring owners.
“We are starting small, but we see big potential. This is just the beginning of Scooters’ next chapter,” he said.
Competing in a Changed Market
The pizza delivery scene has evolved dramatically since Scooters’ heyday, now dominated by delivery apps, tighter delivery times, and demand for fast, affordable comfort food. But Scooters hopes its local roots, nostalgic appeal, and signature speed will help it stand out once again.
Whispers of future expansions suggest Cape Town could be next in line, as the brand aims to re-establish itself nationally.
Whether you’re in it for the nostalgia, the speed, or simply the slices, Scooters Pizza is back – and ready to reclaim its slice of South Africa’s fast-food pie.
