Multi-unit franchisee and Director of Sites at Pizza Factory, Eric Lombardi, has been a passionate leader within the company for over 40 years, since before the brand started franchising. Now, Eric has spearheaded the reopening of Pizza Factory Silver Springs, bringing Awesome pizza back to the community. As a long-standing franchisee, member of the corporate team, and engaged community member, Eric’s story is both inspiring and sparks excitement for the future of the brand.
A Pizza Franchise Pro with Deep Roots
With more than four decades of experience under his belt, Eric Lombardi is the definition of a Pizza Factory pro. Eric’s journey with the brand began years ago as a local franchisee, and over time, his role at Pizza Factory has grown exponentially. He now oversees locations in Fallon and Fernley, Nevada, as well as Loomis, California, while also serving as Pizza Factory’s Director of Sites. In this dual role, Eric both operates restaurants and helps guide other franchisees through critical early stages of development, specifically choosing the right location for their business.
Eric’s hands-on knowledge of what it takes to persist in small towns and tight-knit communities has made him an invaluable asset to the Pizza Factory franchise family. His operational savvy and passion for Pizza Factory have shaped his reputation as a trusted leader on the corporate level and a dedicated hometown operator. Plus, his commitment to promoting longtime employees and family members to operational levels keeps the family-oriented spirit of Pizza Factory alive.
Why Pizza Factory Silver Springs Matters
Eric’s latest endeavor marks an exciting new chapter: reopening the Pizza Factory in Silver Springs, Nevada. As someone who understands the brand inside and out, Eric saw an opportunity to return to a market that already had a strong connection with Pizza Factory. With Eric at the helm, the Silver Springs location blends the brand’s hometown charm with a fresh start—reintroducing the quality, comfort, and community of Pizza Factory to a neighborhood that we’ve missed.
In franchising, reopenings are tough to get right, which is why Eric brings crucial know-how from his role as Director of Sites to Silver Springs. From day one, Eric has believed in Pizza Factory’s mission to deliver more than just great food. For him, bringing the brand back to Silver Springs is about restoring a community favorite and offering a space where people can reconnect.
Leading by Example
Eric’s impact extends far beyond his own restaurants, influencing the growth of the entire brand. As a franchisee, choosing where to open your location is one of the most important parts of launching your pizza franchise business, and Eric’s knowledge of Pizza Factory is a game-changer for other franchisees. “Having known Eric for decades, I can’t imagine anyone better suited to bring our brand back to Silver Springs,” said Pizza Factory CEO Mary Jane Riva. “He’s experienced, knows the brand inside and out, and is passionate about bringing our family-oriented establishment back to the community.”
Built for Community, Built for Growth
Eric Lombardi is an example of a Pizza Factory franchisee who is using everything that the brand has to offer to expand in multiple markets. With Pizza Factory’s flexible restaurant prototypes, Eric has been able to approach Silver Springs from a new angle, blending operational excellence with hometown charm. He’s also a franchisee who brings Pizza Factory’s family values into his business ownership: his family is included in his Pizza Factory franchise operations. Eric’s collaboration with his own family in his business ownership is a nod to Pizza Factory’s family-friendly atmosphere and commitment to community. As a leader, he puts a major emphasis on promoting employees he’s worked with for years, and incorporating his family into operations—he’s a true representation of a franchisee who’s loyal to both the brand and his employees.
Bringing a Pizza Factory to your own community, as the Lombardis have, is possible through passionate leadership. If you’re looking for an opportunity to grow with a brand that emphasizes great food and connection, fill out our inquiry form today!