California Pizza Kitchen (CPK) the Iconic Creator of California-Style Pizza Enters a New Era of Growth Founded in Beverly Hills in 1985, California Pizza Kitchen is a global lifestyle brand and a premier Anchor Tenant for high-traffic Malls, Lifestyle Centers, and Airport/Travel hubs. In December 2025, CPK was acquired by an investor group led by Consortium Brand Partners (owners of Outdoor Voices and Jonathan Adler) in partnership with Eldridge Industries and Convive Brands. Under the leadership of new CEO Jon Weber, the brand is executing a "2026 Resurgence" strategy that prioritizes aggressive domestic and international franchise expansion. CPK's real estate model is shifting toward "flex-format" footprints, ranging from 750 sq. ft. kiosks and express units to 5,800 sq. ft. flagships featuring expanded bars and outdoor patios. Known for culinary innovations like the Original BBQ Chicken Pizza and cauliflower crust, CPK drives consistent multi-generational foot traffic. For landlords and developers, the new ownership provides a strengthened capital structure and a multi-channel brand power that successfully bridges the gap between full-service dining, high-volume grocery retail, and innovative pizza-vending technology.