GE Capital’s Franchise Finance (GEFF) business announced that it has provided a new $7.6 million term loan and $2.0 million revolving credit facility to Milano Restaurants International Corp. The funds will be used primarily to develop its new fast-casual pizza concept, Blast 825°.

Milano’s first Blast 825° unit opened in 2013. It currently has four locations open and two more in development in California. The concept features a new fast-fired pizza format that allows customers to build personal 11” pizzas, choosing from 40 toppings, four sauces and three types of hand-stretched dough. The pizza is then cooked quickly in an 825° oven.

Based in Fresno, CA, Milano’s is a family business that owns, operates and franchises seven concepts, including Blast 825°, primarily in California’s San Joaquin Valley. Its largest concept is Me-n-Ed’s Pizzeria. Founded in 1958, it has 33 company-owned units and 20 franchised units.

GE Capital has had a relationship with Milano’s since 2005.

“As we prepare to expand our new Blast 825° concept, we decided to consolidate our financing with GE Capital,” said Marta Gray, CFO of Milano’s. “They know the challenges of being an owner-operator and they understand our industry and our region. It’s a pleasure to do business with a company that has such deep expertise in the restaurant space.”

“Over its 50+ year operating history, Milano’s has shown that it knows how to build a loyal customer base and successfully compete with nationally known brands,” said Bill Kraus, a senior managing director with GEFF. “Although pizza is a highly competitive segment, we believe the management team is well-equipped to expand the Blast 825° concept.”

With more than 30 years of experience and about $6 billion in assets, GE Capital, Franchise Finance is a leading lender for the U.S. franchise finance market via direct sales and portfolio acquisitions. It specializes in financing mid-market operators with multiple stores in the restaurant and hospitality industries. Its team of industry experts helps them realize their individualized growth plans.