Father and son duo, Barry and Bartev Avakian, have deep roots in Paradise, California, where they opened a Pizza Factory in January 2025. Bartev is a passionate soccer player and coach who works with youth teams and high school programs. He has also spent years in management, fostering strong local connections. Barry, with over 30 years of management experience, has been a steady influence on their business journey. After the devastating 2018 wildfire, they remained committed to their hometown, driven to contribute to its rebuilding efforts. Their decision to open a Pizza Factory together was inspired by their love for the community and their vision of creating a welcoming gathering place for families, friends, and neighbors.
We chatted with Bartev (the son in the father-son duo) to find out what led them to this work, how they’re finding owning a franchise, and any insight they have for prospective franchisees.
What made you decide to look into purchasing a franchise?
We were motivated by a desire to rebuild and invest in Paradise CA. We wanted to open a business that directly supported the community. Having experienced firsthand the challenges local residents faced, we sought a franchise that aligned with our values and provided a family-friendly atmosphere. My introduction to Pizza Factory dates back to childhood visits with my grandparents in Idaho, where I frequently dined at a local Pizza Factory. A conversation with the restaurant’s owner planted the idea of investing in Paradise CA. After engaging with Pizza Factory’s corporate team, we found a strong alignment in their shared mission to support communities, and deciding to open a franchise was a natural fit.
When researching franchises, what criteria mattered to you most? How did Pizza Factory meet those criteria?
With entrepreneurial and management experience, I approached franchise ownership with a focus on corporate structure, operational flexibility, and brand support. My father and I sought a franchise that provided strong foundational guidance while allowing us the autonomy to tailor the business to Paradise’s unique needs. Pizza Factory met these criteria by offering extensive corporate support, high operational standards, and a willingness to embrace our vision for our location. They were excited about investing in Paradise CA, too. CEO Mary Jane Riva and her team played an instrumental role in ensuring our ideas were not only heard but also implemented, reinforcing the collaborative nature of the brand.
Which of your prior skills and experiences do you use in operating your business today?
Both of us, Barry and Bartev, have held various managerial roles, developing expertise in business operations, employee management, and effective communication. Operating in California—a state known for its diverse workforce—has further honed our ability to bridge communication gaps and manage a wide range of employees. My coaching background influences my leadership style. I like to emphasize teamwork, mentorship, and mutual respect in the workplace just like on the field.
When doing your research, which questions did you ask the franchisees?
Understanding the experiences of existing franchisees was a crucial part of the our research process. We inquired about franchise tenure, profitability, sales performance, and employee retention. Conversations with experienced members of the Pizza Factory family provided valuable insights that helped us prepare for various challenges and develop strategies to create a supportive work environment.
Which questions did you ask the franchisor?
In discussions with Pizza Factory’s corporate team, we focused on operational flexibility and support structures. Key topics included procedural guidance, human resources partnerships, healthcare plan offerings, vendor agreements, and the potential for locally sourcing alcohol to support other community-based businesses. Our goal was to understand how Pizza Factory’s model could be adapted to fit the unique needs of Paradise while maintaining brand consistency. The franchisor’s willingness to collaborate and provide tailored solutions reinforced our confidence in the brand.
What were your biggest challenges when you first started out and how did you overcome them?
Securing the right location posed one of the earliest challenges for us. Identifying a viable space that met our needs while navigating local regulations required patience and persistence. Staffing was another hurdle, as assembling a reliable team in a recovering community presented unique obstacles. Additionally, the complexities of business formation demanded careful coordination. The learning curve associated with franchise ownership was steep, requiring us to absorb extensive training in a short period. We successfully navigated these challenges and launched our business in early 2025, even with all these hurdles.
How does Pizza Factory support and encourage your success?
Pizza Factory has provided us ongoing support through training, coaching, marketing, and a strong franchisee network. The corporate team offered hands-on training, ensuring we and our staff mastered all operational aspects of the restaurant. Weekly check-ins with franchise ambassadors help us stay aligned with best practices and receive guidance as needed. Additionally, Pizza Factory has been actively involved in community initiatives, reinforcing the brand’s commitment to local engagement. This comprehensive support system has played a vital role in our continued growth.
What are you most proud of and why?
The most rewarding aspect of our business journey has been the opportunity to work together as a family. Building something meaningful alongside close community members has been both eye-opening and fulfilling. The restaurant has fostered connections with lifelong friends and neighbors, strengthening our ties to and furthering our investment in Paradise CA. Creating a welcoming, family-oriented space that contributes to the town’s recovery is a source of immense pride.
What advice would you give to potential franchise owners?
We would emphasize the importance of thorough research when selecting a franchise. You should visit multiple locations, observe day-to-day operations, and assess whether a franchise is structured as an owner-operated business or a more passive investment. Additionally, understanding the level of involvement required is crucial to making informed decisions. Our experience highlights the value of aligning with a brand that not only meets financial expectations but also resonates with personal values and community goals. They were interested in investing in Paradise CA alongside us!
