Scrumptious, successful pizza joint seeks to expand

Michael Nicholson,

Director of Franchise Operations for Glass Nickel Pizza Co.,

in a Glass Nickel "Grease Car."

What could be better than Glass Nickel pizza?

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Glass Nickel Pizza Co., Madison's favorite pizza, is looking to expand with more locations across Wisconsin.

Almost twelve years ago, Tim Nicholson and Brian Glassel opened Glass Nickel Pizza Co. During their first decade of operation, Nicholson and Glassel worked to solidify a business model.

"They've never stopped improving the operation," Director of Franchise Operations Michael Nicholson says.

After establishing a proven business model, Glassel, Nicholson and their team decided to bring this business model to other communities in Wisconsin by franchising. Michael Nicholson spent the last few years building franchise systems for Glass Nickel, and now, they're ready to franchise. 

"We've come out of hiding," Nicholson says. 

Nicholson's business background includes a business degree from UW-Madison and 13 years in the corporate world, with experience ranging from financial analysis to marketing. (He also delivered pizzas in college.) Now, at Glass Nickel Pizza Co., he focuses on building sustainable business relationships.

"Business to me, is bringing two individuals or parties together and finding a way to move each party's mission forward," Nicholson says.

And Glass Nickel strives to do just that. Individual attention from the founders is one of the things that makes opening a Glass Nickel different from other restaurant chains.

"I think a lot of the reason people would want to franchise with Glass Nickel is really getting hands-on help from the founders," says Zach Symes, Glass Nickel Franchise Intern.

Because the success of each franchise contributes to the success of Glass Nickel as a whole, this hands-on approach benefits everyone involved. 

"If they do well, we do well," Nicholson says.

So far, there are seven independently owned and operated Glass Nickel locations in Wisconsin, with more than 20 pre-approved open territories.

"When you sell a franchise, you put people into business for themselves, but not by themselves," Nicholson says.

With delicious food, great customer service, and a commitment to community and the environment, Glass Nickel has already proved their business model a success. Now, with each new franchise, Glass Nickel will continue to share their hard work with pizza fans across Wisconsin.

If you're wondering how Glass Nickel is able to franchise during a recession, or what the heck a "grease car" is, don't fret! Just follow my Glass Nickel Pizza Co. series.

Read more about franchise opportunities with Glass Nickel Pizza Co.

See more Madison pizza restaurants