Take-Away Podcast
November 6, 2024, by Sam Oches
In this episode of Take-Away with Sam Oches, the conversation centers on how Crust Pizza Co.’s CEO, Carl Comeaux, is steering a 30-unit franchise toward wider expansion across the Southeast. With entrepreneurial roots going back to his teenage years, including co-founding Main Squeeze Juice Co. in 2017, Carl brings a seasoned yet fresh perspective to the pizza business. His approach leans on a hybrid service model that balances dine-in with off-premises dining, aiming to capture both the family restaurant crowd and the convenience-driven customer.
From the start, Carl emphasizes a guiding principle: scalability requires simplicity. By streamlining operations and trimming the menu, Crust ensures it delivers consistent quality while keeping systems efficient. This operational discipline forms the backbone of their growth strategy, making it easier to train staff, maintain brand standards, and support franchisees.
Carl also touches on the emotional side of food service, noting how nostalgia still shapes customer expectations. Brands like Pizza Hut hold a special place in many people’s memories, and Crust works to tap into that feeling by blending familiar elements with fresh ideas. The goal is to create an experience that feels both comforting and current, appealing to a wide demographic.
A major differentiator for Crust is its investment in proprietary technology. Instead of relying on generic third-party systems, the company has built custom tools to oversee everything from POS operations to franchisee support. This tech-first approach not only drives efficiency but also helps align all locations under a unified set of standards and insights, improving profitability for franchise owners.
The episode closes with a look at leadership philosophy. Carl believes that supporting franchise partners is the surest way to strengthen the brand as a whole. He sums it up with a simple mantra: the more you give, the more you receive. By prioritizing franchisee success and fostering collaboration, Crust Pizza Co. is building a foundation for sustainable, people-driven growth.
