Crust has opened three new stores in SA. Image: channelnine.ninemsn.com.au

Gourmet pizza franchise, Crust, has marked its move into South Australia with the opening of three stores in and around Adelaide.

The three new stores, found in Unley, Norwood and Brighton, are part of a growth path for this financial year which will see Crust open a further five in the state by this time next year.

This will take the total number of stores across Australia to more than 95.

"The expansion into South Australia has been a natural next step. Our consumers have repeatedly called for us to open in Adelaide, and we’ve listened. We know that this launch into South Australia will be successful because of the commitment of our consumers to our brand, as well as the fact that the region is ready for fresh, healthy takeaway options," said Costa Anastasiadis, Crust's co-founder.

South Australians can now enjoy the full range of Crust pizzas, which includes the 16 recently launched menu items which feature a range of gourmet ingredients like five-spice pork belly, 4+ Marble Score Wagyu Beef, and smoked salmon drizzled in hollandaise sauce.

"We're incredibly proud of our business offering – from the exceptional product range, right through to our proven franchise model," said Anastasiadis. "Our expansion into South Australia is testament to the enthusiasm of our network of franchisees, the fact we operate a streamlined business, as well as the inherent value the Crust brand holds".