This article was inspired by content originally published on MLive.com
Introduction
In the small Michigan village of Brooklyn, a family’s deep love for a regional pizzeria has transformed from road trip routine into full-blown restaurant reality. Meet the Schefflers ordinary vacationers turned pizza entrepreneurs who’ve made it their mission to bring BC Pizza, a beloved northern Michigan chain, to their own backyard in Jackson County.
With their brand-new franchise now open on M-50 in Napoleon Township, the Schefflers’ story is more than a local news piece. It’s a blueprint for how passion, persistence, and smart business moves can build a pizza empire one slice at a time.
🍕 When Pizza Becomes Personal
For pizza lovers, there’s nothing quite like discovering that one perfect pie on vacation. For the Scheffler family, their northern Michigan retreats always included a stop at BC Pizza a chain celebrated for its buttery crust, creative specialty pies, and robust local following. But when the craving hit back home in Brooklyn, there was only one answer: bring BC Pizza with them.
“Why not open one here?” they asked themselves. And like a well-proofed dough, the idea rose.
🔥 For Enthusiasts: Recreate the BC Pizza Flavor at Home
While you might not be able to bring a whole pizza franchise into your kitchen, there are ways to replicate that northern Michigan flavor right at home. Try:
- A cast iron pizza pan to mimic the crispy golden crust.
- Flavored pizza oils and spice blends to punch up your toppings.
- A rotating pizza oven for even cooking and fast bake times.
And if BC Pizza’s “All Meat Fantasy” or “Chicken Cordon Bleu Pie” inspires your next pizza night, a recipe notebook is a must for tracking flavor experiments.
💼 For Shop Owners: The Franchise Model as Growth Strategy
BC Pizza now has over 30 locations in Michigan a testament to the strength of regional franchising in the pizza industry. The Schefflers’ journey offers valuable insights:
- Capitalize on Nostalgia: The decision to franchise was born out of personal connection. Smart owners can identify regional favorites that evoke an emotional response and create loyalty.
- Location Counts: Their spot along M-50 ensures both foot and drive-by traffic a golden rule for any sit-down or carryout operation.
- Pre-Launch Visibility: Their strategy included building buzz through Facebook teasers, opening-day signage, and community word-of-mouth.
Pizza Pro Tip: If you’re exploring a franchise opportunity or launching a second location, tools like pizza business consulting services or commercial kitchen planning guides can help you scale without the stress.
🧂 For Suppliers: The Secret Sauce is Simplicity
Franchise models like BC Pizza thrive on consistency meaning suppliers should focus on delivering ingredients, tools, and tech that are reliable and repeatable. The Schefflers didn’t reinvent pizza. They simply replicated what worked in a new market.
Key takeaways for suppliers:
- Offer ingredient kits with tight spec controls for consistency.
- Promote bundled prep equipment packages that fit franchise-standard kitchens.
- Focus on streamlined POS systems and inventory software designed for franchise models. (Shop pizza POS tech here)
🍽️ Community Connection Still Reigns Supreme
Beyond business, the Schefflers’ approach is rooted in heart. Their pizzeria is staffed with local faces, reflects local values, and serves as a new community gathering spot. According to the owners, their goal is to bring people together over great food and that mission aligns perfectly with what pizza has always done best.
Final Slice
The story of BC Pizza’s arrival in Jackson County is a reminder that sometimes the best business ideas are born from cravings and conversations. For aspiring pizza entrepreneurs, franchise seekers, and community-minded shop owners, the Schefflers are proof that big moves start with a simple question:
“Why not here?”
So whether you’re flipping pies, managing a franchise, or dreaming of opening your first shop, remember this: the most successful pizzerias aren’t always the biggest they’re the ones built with love, loyalty, and a really good slice.
Affiliate Disclosure:This article was inspired by content originally published on MLive.com by Chloe Miller. This article contains affiliate links, which means Pizza Magazine may earn a commission if you make a purchase through them.
