CARY, N.C. -- The Pantry Inc., operator of Kangaroo Express, is launching a pilot program with Noble Roman's Inc. to bring the Indianapolis-based non-traditional pizza franchisor to its convenience stores.

The pilot program will begin with the first location inside a Kangaroo Express store in Raleigh, N.C., during the first quarter of this year. In total, The Pantry has more than 1,650 c-store locations in 13 states.

The convenience store chain tapped Noble Roman's as a way to build on the popularity of pizza, according to a Noble Roman's release. Noble Roman's is known for its pizza and breadsticks, but also provides a complete menu of products ideal for foodservice within convenience stores and other venues. These offerings include a complete breakfast lineup to pasta, wings and subs.

Operators awarded a Noble Roman's franchise are encouraged to customize the scope of their menu based on their specific objectives, providing a great deal of operator flexibility. Additionally, Noble Roman's has authorized its convenience store operators to begin merchandising the successful take-n-bake pizza program, offering a new profit center under the Noble Roman's nameplate.