Randy McCoy found his lifelong passion for culinary arts, specifically pizza, right down the street from his childhood home. “Russo’s Pizzeria’s first location was just a few blocks away from where I grew up. My brother and I used to go in and order pizza. One day, the owner, Anthony Russo, offered us jobs. That was my very first job. He had a big influence on me – he was the reason I wanted to become an entrepreneur.” By Elice Morgenson

Randy McCoy found his lifelong passion for culinary arts, specifically pizza, right down the street from his childhood home. “Russo’s Pizzeria’s first location was just a few blocks away from where I grew up. My brother and I used to go in and order pizza. One day, the owner, Anthony Russo, offered us jobs. That was my very first job. He had a big influence on me – he was the reason I wanted to become an entrepreneur.”

Russo’s NY Pizzeria is an authentic Italian pizzeria that serves fresh New York-style pizza and Italian cuisine. Russo opened the original location in 1992, and since then, 50 franchise locations have been opened around the world.

McCoy recently signed a five-franchise deal and opened his first Russo’s NY Pizzeria in September of this year. McCoy’s brother-in-law, Imran Qayum, is training to be a manager at the restaurant and was an engineer with no prior restaurant experience. McCoy shared how the brand’s proven system and standards make restaurant management a breeze. “Everything comes in fresh, which could be overwhelming if you don’t have a culinary background. Imran picked it up because he can follow the recipes, and they have it all laid out for us. We have never been in a position where we don’t know how to do something. It is all at our fingertips,” he said.

McCoy also explained why he loves being a part of Russo’s so much. “My favorite part is Anthony. He has all of these stores, but I still am able to speak to him several times a week if I need to. He has been there holding my hand literally. I am sure there are people who work for him that he could have had speak with me. He has 50-plus franchises, and he doesn’t have to do that, but he still makes time to come to the store. He gives me suggestions and recommendations. I think that is wonderful,” McCoy shared.

For more information about franchising opportunities, visit russosfranchise.com.

– Elice Morgenson