How I Built This with Guy Raz Advice Line with Scott and Ally Svenson of MOD Pizza
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Sep 5, 2024 
Scott and Ally Svenson, co-founders of MOD Pizza, share their insights on scaling a successful fast-casual pizza chain. They discuss the resilience of their brand in the face of challenges like the pandemic and their recent acquisition. Additionally, Evan Byrne discusses transforming his pizza restaurant into a vegan frozen pizza company, emphasizing grassroots marketing and brand visibility. The Svensons also offer guidance to fellow entrepreneurs on maintaining quality and navigating growth while fostering community amidst industry hurdles.
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Mod Pizza Founding Story
- Scott and Ally Svenson, high school sweethearts, founded Seattle Coffee Company and sold it to Starbucks.
- They later returned to Seattle and launched Mod Pizza, now with 500 stores, recently acquired by Elite Restaurant Group.
Reasons for Mod Pizza Acquisition
- Mod Pizza's recent acquisition was partly due to pandemic-related challenges, like shifting growth strategies and operational changes.
- Inflation and decreased consumer spending further contributed to the need for capital or a sale.
Measured Expansion
- Leverage existing local brand recognition and expand outward strategically, rather than rapidly.
- Focus on high-quality growth in key markets.