How the Owners of Mountain Mike’s Pizza Built a Scalable 300+ Unit Franchise System

Mountain Mike’s Pizza didn’t scale by accident. The brand’s growth reflects a deliberate strategy to build infrastructure, refine operations, and create a system that franchisees can replicate across markets.

A recent episode of the ZEST with Chelsea Raineri, featuring Mountain Mike’s Pizza co-owners Chris Britt and Ed St. Geme, offers a closer look at how that scalability took shape and why it continues to drive expansion today.

From Investment Mindset to Operating System

Before entering franchising, Britt and St. Geme built their careers in finance and investment. That background shaped their approach to Mountain Mike’s, not just as a restaurant concept but as a system that needed to perform consistently across locations.

Rather than focusing solely on product or branding, they prioritized the underlying operating model. Early on, they recognized that scaling required more than adding units. It required building a structure capable of supporting growth at every level.

Building Infrastructure That Supports Growth

When the two friends acquired Mountain Mike’s, they identified a key gap: the absence of a formal operating support system. Rather than scaling immediately, they focused on building the infrastructure first.

They developed systems for:

• Franchisee support and communication 
• Operational consistency across locations 
• Performance tracking and accountability 

This foundation enabled franchisees to operate with greater clarity and predictability, both critical to multi-unit growth.

Adapting to Market Shifts Without Losing Identity

As the restaurant industry evolved, Mountain Mike’s adapted its model while preserving its core identity. Leadership embraced digital ordering, third-party delivery, and operational efficiencies while continuing to invest in the dine-in experience.

That balance proved important. While many brands shifted entirely to off-premises dining, Mountain Mike’s preserved its position as a community-oriented gathering place, an approach that supports revenue diversification and long-term brand loyalty.

Scaling Through Franchisee Alignment

A defining feature of Mountain Mike’s growth has been its alignment with franchisees. Leadership has emphasized listening to operators, incorporating feedback, and evolving the system in ways that support unit-level performance.

This collaborative approach has helped the brand build a network of engaged operators who see themselves not only as owners but also as partners in the system’s growth.

A Model Built for Expansion

Today, Mountain Mike’s continues to expand beyond its West Coast roots into new markets across the country. Its ability to deliver strong performance in emerging regions reflects the strength of the system behind it.

For entrepreneurs evaluating franchise opportunities, the takeaway is clear: scalability doesn’t come from growth alone. It comes from building a model that enables it.

To learn more about the Mountain Mike’s franchise opportunity and download the Franchise Information Report, visit the Mountain Mike’s franchising website and explore how this system may align with your investment goals.