Sanco set to fire up Newcastle pizza scene

A Newcastle-based restaurant is bringing a fresh dining concept to the city.

Sanco, a Neapolitan pizza experience founded by local Paolo Franchi, has secured a strategic investment from NPIF II – NEL Smaller Loans, managed by NEL Fund Managers as part of the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund II (NPIF II). 

Bosses say the funding, led by investment executive Jonathan Armitage, will support the launch of the restaurant, which is set to open next week.

They add the investment will help Sanco establish its presence in Newcastle and deliver a distinctive casual dining experience that blends quality food, sustainability and interaction.

Paolo said: “It was an absolute pleasure dealing with Jonathan and the NEL team. 

“I received invaluable support and guidance throughout the entire process, particularly the due diligence stage. 

“It was fantastic to see how genuinely passionate the team was about my business, and I can’t wait to launch and see what we achieve.

“Being a local lad, starting up a business in the city I love means everything to me. 

“I’m so glad to have taken this step and explored what was possible with NEL and NPIF II funding. 

“I’d encourage anyone in a similar position to investigate the support that’s out there.”

Jonathan added: “NEL is building a track record of supporting fantastic businesses and brands in the leisure and hospitality sector across the North East. 

“We’re absolutely delighted to add Sanco to our portfolio.

“Paolo brings a wealth of knowledge, experience and professionalism to the business and it was a pleasure to work with him. 

“We’re excited to see this new concept fully launched in a city recently crowned as best in the UK for food and drink and we look forward to seeing the business go on to be a great success.”

The restaurant will offer hand-crafted pizzas baked in a traditional wood-fired oven, combining authentic Italian techniques with bold flavours. 

A unique feature, the ‘pizza roulette’, will allow diners to switch on a table light to receive surprise slices and switch it off when they are done, creating a playful, sociable dining experience while reducing food waste.

Ingredients will be imported from Italy, ensuring authenticity and the restaurant will provide a vibrant, welcoming environment for customers. 

The £660 million Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund II (NPIF II) fund, operated by British Business Bank, provides loans from £25,000 to £2 million and equity investment up to £5 million to help small and medium-sized businesses.

Sarah Newbould, senior investment manager at the British Business Bank, said: “NPIF II is committed to backing innovative ventures like Sanco. 

“Paulo has created a sustainable, fresh and boundary-pushing dining experience that redefines the norm and reduces food waste. 

“We’re excited to see Sanco launch and can’t wait to see what they go on to achieve.”

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