Turning Passion into Pizza: An Interview with Gio’s Pizzeria
Welcome to today’s episode of the SPM Show! We have a special guest, Gio, who owns a unique pizzeria located inside a coffee shop. Gio’s story is one of passion, transition, and innovation in the pizza industry. Let’s dive into how he got started, the costs involved, and his journey from a career in finance to becoming a full-time pizza entrepreneur.
Starting Up and Location Choice
Gio’s pizzeria isn’t your typical pizza joint. Located inside a coffee shop, it stands out for its unique setup and efficient use of space. When asked why he chose this location, Gio shared that it provided an ideal footprint to operate with minimal overhead while tapping into the coffee shop’s customer base. This unconventional choice allowed him to start small, maintain low costs, and steadily grow his brand.
The Costs of Starting a Pizzeria
Starting a pizzeria, especially one inside a coffee shop, comes with its set of challenges and expenses. Gio detailed his initial investment, which was surprisingly low. With less than $2,000, he was able to kickstart his mobile pizza pop-up. His major expenses included purchasing a couple of Uni ovens, a tent, folding tables, and coolers. This lean approach not only minimized financial risk but also allowed him to focus on perfecting his product and building a loyal customer base.
From Finance to Full-Time Pizza
Gio’s journey is a testament to following one’s passion. With 18 years in finance and accounting, he decided to leave his stable career to pursue his love for pizza. The transition wasn’t easy, but Gio’s determination and support system made it possible. His side business of mobile pizza catering gained enough momentum to become his full-time gig. Gio emphasized the importance of having a good support system, especially his family, who played a crucial role in his entrepreneurial journey.
Mobile Catering and Ambassadorship
One of the unique aspects of Gio’s business is his focus on mobile catering. He started with mobile events, using Uni ovens to cater to up to 250 people. His expertise and passion for pizza led him to become a Uni ambassador, allowing him to test new products and collaborate with the brand. This partnership has been mutually beneficial, giving Gio access to the latest in pizza-making technology and enhancing his brand’s credibility.
Expansion Plans and Operational Hours
As Gio’s business grew, so did his operational hours. Initially open only on Saturdays, he gradually added Thursdays and Fridays to the schedule. His pizzeria is now open Thursday and Friday evenings, and all day on Saturdays, with plans to expand to Wednesdays and Sundays, as well as adding lunch hours. This strategic expansion ensures that he can manage the volume while maintaining the quality of his product.
The Importance of a Support System
Throughout our conversation, Gio repeatedly highlighted the importance of having a strong support system. From his family to his staff, everyone played a part in helping him transition from a finance career to running a pizzeria. This support was crucial, especially during the early days when he was juggling both jobs. Gio’s story underscores that success in any business requires not just passion and hard work, but also the backing of people who believe in your vision.
Advice for Aspiring Pizza Entrepreneurs
Gio’s advice for those looking to start their own pizza business is simple: believe in your product, have a solid support system, and start lean. He encourages aspiring entrepreneurs to focus on making a good pizza and to leverage social media for marketing. Gio’s journey from a mobile pop-up to a full-time pizzeria inside a coffee shop is an inspiring example of how passion, hard work, and strategic planning can lead to success.
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Resources
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- SPM Community: Whether you’re a seasoned pizza operator or just starting, the SPM Community is your go-to hub for all things pizza.