Insights from an Owner on the Cutting Edge of Restaurant Growth and Management

My guest for this episode of The Restaurant Prosperity Formula is Avery Ward, CEO of Little Italy Pizza in Ohio and a mentor in my coaching program for restaurant owners. Our discussion highlights Ward's journey from working directly in his restaurant to leading a thriving multi-unit business with a team of 80 employees. He shares key insights into leadership, building a strong management team and using tools like video to drive business growth.

Ward also discusses his role as a mentor, where he helps other restaurant owners implement proven systems and navigate challenges to achieve success. The episode showcases how Ward applied the principles of the Restaurant Prosperity Formula to transform his business and his life, offering inspiration and practical advice for restaurateurs looking to do the same.

Growing a Managing a Restaurant

During our discussion, Ward touches on the challenges of growing his business, from preserving the nostalgic charm of his original location to navigating rapid expansion, including tripling sales and doubling staff. Their conversation underscores that while challenges arise, focusing on a detailed vision helps keep the business on track. Ward and I stress the importance of revisiting and communicating this vision to motivate staff, maintain high standards, and ensure long-term growth. Despite setbacks like hiring struggles, Ward's demonstrates how persistence and clarity of purpose can lead to remarkable success.

Ward builds on the importance of systems and effective communication in restaurant management such as the benefits of reinforcing positive behaviors within the team, even in the face of challenges. He doesn’t hold back in sharing his own struggles with balancing constructive criticism and praise, emphasizing the importance of team alignment and problem-solving to navigate operational hurdles.

Tips for Growing a Restaurant

Ward shares his process of nurturing leadership within his team, leveraging a structured approach to identify, train and promote staff. This ensures a "bench" of capable employees ready to step up when needed.

Using Media for Restaurant Growth

Learn how Ward expanded from working in the kitchen to opening a new store in 2023, repurposed a former location into a coffee shop, Main Ground Coffee, set to open in March 2025, and launched a food truck in 2024 as a branding and community engagement tool rather than a direct profit driver. As drive for growth, Ward invested in Little Italy Media, a creative initiative sharing the restaurant's story through a weekly video series, Slice of Life. The series highlights internal culture, behind-the-scenes operations and community connections, with segments like Groveport Great, featuring local changemakers, and Giving Back, showcasing community outreach efforts, such as feeding prison staff and inmates. 

Restaurant Owners Mentors and Supports Other Owners

Whether you’re a restaurant owner looking for operational tips or an entrepreneur seeking inspiration, this episode delivers actionable advice. Ward demonstrates the power of blending creativity, technology, and community focus to scale a business while staying true to its roots.

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