Tours, Workshops and Demos at Pizza Expo Columbus Take Your Pizzeria to the Next Level
Pizza Expo Columbus is a tax-deductible working vacation that is developed specifically for owners and operators of pizzerias and Italian restaurants. There’s something for everyone at Pizza Expo Columbus. For two jam-packed days, you’ll have access to more than 275 booths of products and services as well as a free top-shelf conference program, which includes food demonstrations, seminars and special events.
Whether you’re an industry veteran or just thinking about opening your first unit, Pizza Expo Columbus is a must-attend event! It’s your one-stop shop for everything you need to run a successful and profitable restaurant.
You’ll be able to see, touch, taste and explore thousands of products, as well as negotiate great deals right on the show floor. Better yet, get the most out of your show experience by signing up for one of our fee-based workshops specifically designed for operators who are looking to take their pizzerias to the next level.
Scott’s Pizza Tours Columbus – Scott Wiener
This is your chance to join Scott Wiener, famous for his New York Pizza Tours, on a bus tour three of the top pizzerias in Columbus, Ohio. We’ll partner with Scott to produce an exclusive, curated tour for a small group. Those lucky enough to purchase a tour ticket will be able to sample pizzas and local beers, visit the kitchens and meet the owners. Each attendee will receive a “Pocket Pizza Journal” for taking tasting notes, as well as a pizza-themed swag bag. Scott has amassed an encyclopedic knowledge of the industry, and between pizzerias you’ll have an opportunity to take a deep dive into pizza history and trends from Scott’s perspective as an industry expert, educator and consumer.
Sourdough Pizza Dough – Will Grant
Will Grant (a.k.a. Sourdough Willy) is the top sourdough competitive chef in the world – and the first non-Italian Master Pizzaiolo Instructor in the U.S. His newest concept – Sourdough Willy’s Pizzeria in Kingston, Washington – serves six styles of pizza made from his family’s ancient sourdough. He operates the PNW School of Pizza at both restaurants, sharing his love for sourdough and pizza through classes and consulting. In Columbus, he’ll walk you through his process for making truly great pizza dough as well as several different pizzas. He will focus on the history of pizza, the future of pizza through American-style pizza as well as Italian-style pizza. Come learn from one of the most experienced instructors in the world!
Hiring in Any Market & Creating a Winning Training Program – Nick Bogacz
Join Nick Bogacz, a seasoned pizzeria owner and industry expert, for an intensive four-hour educational workshop designed to equip pizzeria owners and managers with the tools and strategies needed to thrive in today’s competitive labor market.
In this workshop, you’ll learn how to attract top talent, streamline your hiring process and build a training program that sets your team up for success. Nick will walk you through creating detailed menu item guides to ensure consistency and quality across your offerings. You’ll also discover actionable steps to implement effective hiring and training procedures tailored to your pizzeria’s unique needs.
You Want to Open a Pizza Restaurant – Michael Androw
Dreaming of opening your own pizzeria from scratch? Michael Androw has been there, done that, and lived to tell the tale. This workshop is your crash course in everything from site selection and lease negotiations to zoning laws and start-up marketing. But it’s not just about the nuts and bolts – it’s about the blood, sweat, and tears (and maybe a few sleepless nights) that come with building your dream. Michael’s insights could be the difference between success and heartbreak. If you’re ready to take the plunge, this session is a must.
When deciding which tradeshow to attend, remember that general state foodservice shows are precisely that, even if they claim to have an Italian pavilion and a few pizza and pasta exhibitors. To succeed in today’s fiercely competitive restaurant marketplace, you need access to all the latest strategies and product
innovations. Pizza Expo Columbus is your one-stop solution.
For more information or to register, visit PizzaExpoColumbus.PizzaToday.com or call me at (502) 599-4650.
BILL OAKLEY is the Group Show Director for Pizza Expo.
