How did you get into the industry?
When I first moved here from India 2 years ago, I found that I couldn’t eat many foods here in the U.S. Not only was I lactose-intolerant, but I couldn’t digest the meat here. I began seeking out foods to help within my own personal dietary needs and desires, and I wanted to help others who were experiencing the same struggles with finding good foods as I was. I experimented with different tastes in my own kitchen — it was a long journey!
After attending a healthcare conference where one of the speakers discussed the benefits of a vegan diet for general health (particularly for those with cancer), I came up with the Pizzeria Halt concept. This would be a place where everything was made in-house — everything is made in our own kitchen which really adds to the delicious flavor that we’ve achieved. Our from-scratch kitchen has set us apart in the industry; the flavors are simply unmatched!
I sought to develop the franchise soon after we were established because I understood how unique our vegan pizza is. After being appreciated locally for the uniqueness and the deliciousness of our product, we decided to reach every part of the United States. Our franchise development team has been a huge help.
What’s New in the Franchise Model?
Our business model has been proven since we first launched. Our current flagship location is in Modesto, CA. We are planning to open additional flagship locations in Mountain House and San Jose, CA. We have seen this model proven throughout our operating years and will be passing along every piece of our processes to our franchisees. Another key point that is helpful to our franchisees is that stock options are available!
Where do you See Opportunities or Challenges for the Franchise/Business Moving Forward?
We saw a huge opportunity during COVID to prove that our food was better. We are completely VEGAN so we have no animal things in our facility. Contamination starts in animal products and animal by-products. We are unique in this space right now because we have no frozen meat. During COVID this has been a huge advantage for us.
Another huge opportunity has been the uptick in delivery for foods. Pizza is a trusted, go-to delivery option and we are a unique vegan choice that people really do love. We always hear that everyone asks for more!
What are your unique points of training and support?
My franchisees will be working with me directly. I offer well-established branding, professionally produced commercials that can be customized to each franchise location, great social media guidance, ongoing operational support, and all of our proprietary recipes. Our training program covers every facet of our business. The Management Training program makes this opportunity accessible to anyone, even those without a business background. It’s important to us that our franchisees feel that they become part of our family.
Your most difficult moment at the Franchise Business?
When we first had to learn how to adjust to being closed during the pandemic — that was a hard moment, but it turned out to be an opportunity for us. Everything else has been great.
Define your Franchise Model:
A. Training and Support Model? Comprehensive training program at headquarters followed by ongoing support.
B. What is the Fee Structure?
Royalty: 5% of your gross sales
Franchise fee: $30,000
C. Territory Definition?
30,000-50,000 population
What does Your Franchisee Do in the Business Every Day?
The franchisee will be handling daily operations which include product ordering and inventory management, employee hiring, quality control, and more.
Who is the Ideal Franchise Candidate?
For people who care more about people and less about money, our franchise is the right one. We are looking for business-savvy individuals with a strong work ethic and integrity who also meet the financial requirements to become our franchise partner.
Success Stories with Franchisees?
As of now, we are just launching our franchise model. Our franchisees will be happy, and we are giving them a model that is capable of producing great success.
What Goals Do You Have for the Franchise Model in the Future?
We want to rise to the top as THE vegan pizzeria in the U.S.!
Corporate website: https://pizzeriahalt.com