In the bustling world of modern cuisine, certain dishes transcend mere sustenance to become global icons of culinary delight. Among these, pizza stands tall as a universally cherished favorite, celebrated in homes and eateries alike across continents. One of the most popular and loved dishes of a majority of people from all around the globe is pizza. And according to one survey of more than 2,000 U.S. adults, 21% said pizza was their favorite food. Another survey also estimated that globally, people eat about 2 billion pizzas per year. Indeed, pizza is a very popular food worldwide and is a staple in many countries. Beyond its status as a beloved food, the story of Mountain Mike’s Pizza exemplifies how a humble pizzeria can grow into a beacon of community support and goodwill, enriching the lives of those it serves far beyond the dining table.
In 1978, Thomas Van Buskirk from Palo Alto, California acknowledged the growing demand for Pizza the Way it Oughta Be and in return greatly attributed the community by establishing a pizzeria known as Mountain Mike’s Pizza, which was later acquired in 2017 by Chris Britt and Ed St. Geme. Boasting expertise in private investment, Britt and St. Geme’s vision, along with leadership from restaurant industry veteran, Jim Metevier as CEO, has driven the brand’s expansion beyond the 200-unit mark and doubled new-unit development since 2018. Starting with a tiny vision confined to only one spot, Mountain Mikes Pizza stands tall today, having grown into a large brand as one of the largest regional pizza chains in existence with approximately 300 stores across the western United States. They are found in places like California, Arizona, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, Idaho, Texas, and Colorado.
Today the brand is set on expanding coast-to-coast with additional restaurants in development across Washington, Wisconsin, Florida, Tennessee, Georgia and Virginia. While Western states continue to be the primary target because of the established reputation of the brand there, in the next five years, the company plans to continue its growth trajectory by adding over 100 more units to its footprint.
There is more to Mountain Mike’s Pizza than just pizza. The company is an active member of the community and gives a lot of time and money to good causes. Mountain Mike’s Pizza does more than just make tasty pizza. It also supports a number of local causes through donation programs at its restaurants. These programs help local schools, academic clubs, youth sports teams, church groups, charities, and other non-profits by giving them the money they need.
Donations to these fundraising programs change from place to place but are usually between 20% and 40% per restaurant, which is a big help to local causes. This kind of aid helps groups reach their objectives and builds neighborhood ties at the same time. Mountain Mike’s Pizza is dedicated to giving back to the communities it serves, as shown by its ongoing efforts to connect with and assist those communities.
Mountain Mike’s Pizza not only helps local groups raise money by giving them these fundraising chances, but it also builds community and goodwill among its customers. Mountain Mike’s Pizza is committed to making a positive impact beyond the dining experience. This active participation in community service shows that the company truly cares about the well-being and growth of the communities it serves.s.
