At the 2021 Pizza Expo, third-party delivery was a hot topic in all my sessions, even those that had nothing to do with third-party delivery. If you decide to partner with a third-party delivery company, then I suggest you truly PARTNER with them. Th...

In the previous installment of Building Blocks, we explained which management positions are required to run a successful pizzeria — now we need to define them. Before you identify the potential managers within your organization or make the proper h...

There are two deep-seeded myths most pizzeria owners hold true that are holding them back from being as successful as they can be. I want to bust those two myths now so you can make the money you deserve and have freedom from your business, too.   M...

How – and why – pizzerias might use the close of the year to recognize employees  Back in 2013, Justin Klavon wanted to do something unique to acknowledge the employees at his namesake pizzeria in Jackson, Michigan.  While long accustomed to ha...

Here is a typical scenario we’ve all seen happen. You go to another restaurant and see a fantastic employee. You wish this employee were your employee, so your brain starts spinning. How can I make this wish a reality? Therein lies the predicament;...

You probably know the phrase, “You’re only as good as the people around you.” That’s because it’s true. I surround myself with great managers in all my pizzerias.  In the next couple of editions of Building Blocks, we’ll examine the ...

A food so loved they gave us a whole month. Uncertainty has ruled the restaurant industry since March 2020. But now it’s time to put our energies into celebrating America’s favorite food, pizza! October is National Pizza Month and one of the indu...

Great food photos move the needle. If your photos are poorly taken or don’t let the food’s colors pop, customers are that much more likely not to order and try someone else. Food photos done correctly are an immediate ROI producer. Here are tips ...

No pizzeria has ever earned a Michelin star. That’s right, the restaurant guide founded by a tire company just isn’t into pizza. A few years ago, I heard a rumor that a pizzeria in Naples was expected to receive the honor. They were so sure about...

Innovative loyalty programs that keep customers coming back Marketing is not a one size fits all process. Demographics such as number of homes, income and employment opportunities play a part in successful marketing. A recent survey aimed at small to...

The Fan Club The concept of loyalty programs dates to the 18th century. In recent times, however, there has been an increased interest among restaurants to offer this type of customer-attracting-and-retaining method. Today, a plethora of big brands r...

All In To offer online ordering or not? This is a question that has come to the mind of many operators as a result of restrictions on in-house dining. Although the COVID 19 pandemic has presented the restaurant industry innumerous challenges, setback...