In today’s fast-paced world, where convenience often takes precedence, it’s rare to find restaurants that go beyond serving great food to actively participate in the betterment of their communities. Many businesses prioritize profit margins over social responsibility, but some exceptional establishments recognize the importance of giving back. These restaurants understand that they are more than just places to eat—they are integral parts of the neighborhoods they serve.
Through community engagement, fundraising efforts, and support for local causes, these establishments build strong bonds with their customers and contribute to the well-being of the regionsthey call home. By offering fundraising programs and donating a portion of their profits, they not only help local organizations but also foster a sense of unity and purpose within their communities.
One such business that exemplifies this commitment to community welfare is Mountain Mike’s Pizza. Founded in 1978 by Thomas Van Buskirk in Palo Alto, California, Mountain Mike’s has grown from a single pizzeria into a beloved chain known for its legendary crispy, curly pepperoni, fresh dough made daily, and impressive 20-inch mountain-sized pizza’s.
Operating within the private sector and rooted in the pizzeria and restaurant industries, Mountain Mike’s Pizza has become synonymous with quality and community engagement. The company, now headquartered in Newport Beach, California, offers a diverse menu that includes pizza, chicken wings, garlic knots, mozzarella sticks, desserts, sodas, and a selection of beer and wine, catering to a wide variety of tastes.
As of November 2023, Mountain Mike’s operates 286 locations across ten states, including Arizona, Colorado, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, Texas, and Idaho, with ongoing expansion efforts in Washington and Wisconsin. With nearly 300 restaurants, Mountain Mike’s stands as one of the largest regional pizza chains in existence, focusing particularly on Western states where the brand already enjoys widespread recognition. The company aims to add approximately 200more units coast-to-coast over the next five years, continuing its impressive growth trajectory.
Despite its rapid expansion, Mountain Mike’s remains deeply committed to the communities it serves. The chain offers fundraising programs at its restaurants to support local schools, academic clubs, youth sports teams, church groups, charities, and other non-profit organizations. These initiatives provide a valuable opportunity for community groups to raise essential funds while enjoying a meal together.
Depending on the location, Mountain Mike’s donates between 20% to 40% of sales during these events, contributing significantly to local causes and reinforcing its dedication to making a positive impact. This approach not only supports local communities but also solidifies Mountain Mike’s reputation as a brand that cares about more than just profits.
Under the ownership of Chris Britt and Ed St. Geme since 2017, Mountain Mike’s has continued to thrive, not only as a business but also as a community partner. The company reported system sales of $297 million in 2023, with an average net worth of $1.1 million per location in 2022, reflecting its strong financial performance. The brand’s commitment to community welfare, coupled with its expansion plans, ensures that Mountain Mike’s will continue to play a vital role in the lives of its customers.
In March 2024, the chain received the FRANdata TopScore FUND Award for its industry-leading support of access to financing and lending opportunities for franchisees, underscoring its dedication to creating opportunities for growth both within the company and in the communities it serves.
Mountain Mike’s Pizza’s commitment to community engagement is reflected in the numerous awards and recognitions it has earned. The chain was ranked among the top 150 restaurants in Nation’s Restaurant News (NRN) 2022 Top 500 Report, a testament to its strong performance and customer loyalty. Additionally, Mountain Mike’s received the FRANdata TOPscore award for 2023, highlighting its excellence in performance and lender friendliness, further cementing its reputation as a reliable and community-focused brand.
As Mountain Mike’s Pizza moves forward, its focus on community betterment and quality food will undoubtedly continue to drive its success, making it a standout example of what a restaurant chain can achieve when it prioritizes more than just profits. By remaining true to its roots and expanding its community involvement, Mountain Mike’s is setting a high standard for others in the industry to follow.
