At Pizza Factory, we’re proud to be a part of the stories of so many individuals across the West: fans, franchisees, and beyond. Whether you remember stopping at the local Pizza Factory on road trips or celebrating there after a high school sports game, our fans often bring the biggest passion and the strongest community connection to franchise ownership.
Why do many of Pizza Factory’s franchisees start as fans of the brand? For us, it’s proof that when you already believe in the brand, understand the culture, and feel connected to the community-first mindset, ownership becomes a natural next step. For over 40 years, the Pizza Factory franchise has been built for that journey, welcoming people who love the brand and grow into owners who lead our award-winning pizza franchise forward.
Pizza Factory Turlock: From Tech to Tossin’
Pizza Factory Turlock, CA is a perfect example of how fans turn passion into ownership. The location is owned and operated by Luis Marquez and Sandy Perez, a couple with deep appreciation for the brand and strong ties to their community. Before becoming a franchisee, Luis spent nearly 20 years in the IT world, always carrying a dream to own a pizza restaurant. When the opportunity to bring Pizza Factory back to Turlock emerged, it clicked immediately. “Pizza Factory holds a special place in our hearts, and we are passionate about expanding the existing legacy of the brand,” he said.
For Luis and Sandy, Pizza Factory franchise ownership was about growing with a brand they already trusted and loved. By creating a welcoming gathering space rooted in involvement, consistency, and care for their neighbors, they have been able to honor Pizza Factory’s legacy while fulfilling a dream of their own.
Pizza Factory Paradise: Servin’ Up Nostalgia
In Paradise, California, Pizza Factory is powered by nostalgia and purpose. Father-and-son duo Barry and Bartev Avakian opened their Pizza Factory with a clear mission: to help their hometown heal and reconnect after years of wildfire devastation.
For Bartev, Pizza Factory has been part of his life since childhood. Growing up in Idaho, he remembers visiting the restaurant and feeling drawn to its wholesome, family-oriented atmosphere. That early connection, paired with years of experience working in pizza and retail operations, made franchising with Pizza Factory a natural fit. “Having a background working at pizza establishments along with my nostalgic appreciation for Pizza Factory, joining the brand was a no-brainer, Bartev said. “Operating my own business has been one of the most fulfilling phases of my life as I can directly see the positive impact had on the people I encounter each day.”
An Award-Winning Pizza Franchise That Makes Business Ownership Possible
Turning from fan into franchise owner can feel daunting, especially for those without formal restaurant ownership experience. At Pizza Factory, our award-winning support is designed to coach fans on how to become a restaurant owner. We were recently ranked #52 on Franchise Business Review’s 2026 Top 200 Franchises, an honor based entirely on direct feedback from franchise owners. Franchise Business Review surveyed more than 26,000 franchisees across 330 brands, and no company can pay for placement, making this recognition a true reflection of franchisee satisfaction. Year after year, Pizza Factory ranks highly because owners feel supported. For fan-to-franchisees like Luis, Sandy, Barry, and Bartev, that support turns passion into a sustainable business.
Pizza Factory fans already understand what makes our brand special: fresh, hand-tossed pizza, welcoming dining rooms, and deep community roots. When those fans become owners, they bring authenticity, pride, and long-term commitment into their restaurants.
If the Pizza Factory franchise has been part of your story and you’re ready to explore what ownership could look like, we’d love to continue the conversation. Fill out our inquiry form today and take the first step.