BeTheBoss: Tell us about the Vern’s Pizza concept.
Grant Cole: Vern’s Pizza started in 1990 at Vern’s Place, a gas station in Saskatoon. We are well known for the Vern’s Original Thick Pizza and for Vern’s By The Slice, which is a meal itself. We offer a variety of pizza styles and flavors. We also carry in demand side items like wings, ribs and poutine. We use only the finest ingredients starting with our dough that is made at each location and hand tossed daily. We produce our own signature pizza sauce. We use 100% mozza cheese and slice our meat and vegetables daily to deliver a great pizza to great customers.
BTB: How and when did you become involved with Vern’s Pizza?
GC: I have been involved with Vern’s Pizza for 8 years. The owner of the company approached me and asked me to work with him in developing the Vern’s Pizza brand across Canada.
BTB: What was your background prior to joining Vern’s Pizza?
GC: I have been in the restaurant industry for over 30 years. I started part time at a franchised restaurant while in high school and worked my way through various management positions. I have owned and operated my own independent restaurant.
BTB: What are some of the advantages in being a Vern’s Pizza franchisee?
GC: Vern’s Pizza has been in business for over 20 years. We have great brand recognition in markets we represent and also in emerging markets. We have a proven system and a team for support, training and marketing.
BTB: Who is your ideal franchisee?
GC: The ideal Vern’s Pizza franchisee has the entrepreneurial spirit and drive to succeed. They are passionate about serving customers a fabulous product. They are committed to following a proven system.
BTB: What are some of the greatest lessons you’ve learned in growing this franchise?
GC: Be passionate about what you do and the customers you serve. Hard, consistent work pays off.
BTB: Do you have a mentor and is their someone you use for inspiration?
GC: Tim Burns, the owner of The Vern’s Pizza Company Ltd. He has the entrepreneurial spirit, and a passion for the success of his franchisees. My dad, a great family man who taught me how to lead and build relationships. My sister, a person driven to perform at the highest level of her profession.
BTB: What advice do you have for someone looking to acquire a Franchise?
GC: Do your due diligence. Talk to franchisees and corporate staff. Decide on a franchise that you can be passionate about and can speak highly of. Take the step and move forward.
BTB: In your opinion, why do you think that Vern’s Pizza would be a great opportunity for someone?
GC:Everyone eats pizza. Vern’s Pizza serves a great quality product and every pizza is a piece of art. A new franchisee will have the training and support allowing him or her to succeed.
