Crust Pizza Co., a rapidly growing franchise, is not just about serving delicious pizzas; it’s about creating a brand that resonates with the communities it serves. The company’s five core values — Commitment, Respect, Unity, Service and Thankfulness (CRUST) — are deeply embedded in the operating mindset of the business, guiding every decision and action taken by both the corporate team and franchisees. 1851 Franchise spoke with CEO Carl Comeaux to better understand how each one guides the brand’s franchisees to success.
Commitment
Commitment is the cornerstone of Crust Pizza Co.’s philosophy. This commitment expected from franchisees is twofold: to the brand’s standards and to the communities where they operate.
“Franchisees need to be committed to the Crust way because that’s what we’re selling,” said Comeaux. “They need to be committed to giving back to the community that they’re in. We aren’t just a franchise; we’re a local pizzeria.”
Franchisees are expected to be more than just business owners; they are integral parts of the local fabric, engaging with schools, churches and other community organizations. This approach ensures that Crust Pizza Co. has a reputation as a local business that genuinely cares about its neighborhood.
Respect
Respect is another fundamental value that Crust Pizza Co. upholds. This culture of mutual respect creates a positive work environment, which in turn leads to better customer service.
“Respect is important because we are working with other individuals,” said Comeaux. “Franchisees need to respect their staff and staff need to respect the guests. This allows everyone to do their job well and an enjoyable environment.”
Employees who feel respected are more likely to show respect to customers, fostering a welcoming atmosphere that keeps guests coming back.
Unity
Unity is essential in a fast-paced restaurant environment, where everyone must pull his or her weight to get the job done.
“It’s all about the team,” Comeaux said. “We all need to work together and look out for each other to accomplish our shared goals.”
The company seeks franchisees who are not only leaders but also team players, capable of fostering a collaborative environment where everyone works together to achieve common targets. This unity is what allows Crust Pizza Co. to deliver consistent quality across all its locations.
Service
Service at Crust Pizza Co. goes beyond just taking orders and delivering food. It’s about creating memorable experiences for guests, or “wowing” them every day.
“We try to pinpoint three to five families a day per location and give them a free dessert. We like to surprise them, and it’s a little thing that we can do that goes a long way,” said Comeaux. “We also offer kids pizza dough to play with while they wait for their food. For us, that dough doesn’t cost us anything, but it’s such a big deal to the families and creates a memorable experience.”
These thoughtful touches turn a routine meal into a special occasion, building customer loyalty and making Crust Pizza Co. a beloved community fixture.
Thankfulness
Thankfulness is at the heart of Crust Pizza Co.’s operations. To be able to work in an environment where families come together to enjoy great food and to create memories is something to be grateful for.
“We’ve got to be thankful and grateful for this opportunity that we get to serve our guests each and every day,” said Cormeaux.
This attitude of gratitude permeates the company culture, influencing how franchisees interact with both customers and employees. It’s about appreciating the chance to make a difference in someone’s day, whether through a simple meal or a kind gesture.
CRUST Pizza Co. Values Drive Success
These core values not only guide daily operations but also influence the selection of franchise candidates. Crust Pizza Co. seeks franchisees who embody these principles and are genuinely committed to upholding them. The most successful franchisees are those who integrate these values into every aspect of their business, from how they treat their employees to how they engage with their community.
