

E1058: Slice CEO & Founder Ilir Sela helps local pizzerias compete with chains by digitizing orders & small fees, shares insights on raising $40M+ Series C during pandemic, “reverse franchise model”, viral GrubHub invoice, helping front-line workers & local pizzerias with Pizza vs. Pandemic
May 12, 2020
Ilir Sela, Founder and CEO of Slice, shares insights on how his platform empowers local pizzerias by digitizing orders and implementing a unique reverse franchise model. He discusses the struggles small pizzerias faced during the pandemic and the impactful 'Pizza vs. Pandemic' initiative. Ilir also delves into the challenges of high delivery fees from major apps and how Slice stands out with lower costs. Plus, he reflects on raising over $40M in Series C funding amidst these challenges and the future of remote work in the pizza industry.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Calacanis' Angel Investing
- Jason Calacanis observed how some people choose to do something impactful during the pandemic.
- He gave virtual angel investing classes, raising $30-40k for struggling businesses, inspiring Ilir Sela's efforts.
$500 Impact
- Many don't realize a $500 order can significantly impact a small business.
- Calacanis highlighted this, emphasizing the importance of understanding the economics of small businesses like pizzerias.
Pizzeria Economics
- The average pizzeria makes around $450,000/year, mostly offline.
- Owners essentially buy themselves a job, earning $50-70k annually, with thin margins around 20%.