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The future of fun begins at IAAPA FEC Summit, January 19–21, 2025, in New Orleans, Louisiana. Join FEC and LBE professionals for an immersive experience packed with strategic insights, networking, and behind-the-scenes EDUTours of unique local facilities. Learn how to make your FEC stand out a crowded market and explore the latest trends designed to elevate your business. Build valuable connections and leave inspired with actionable strategies for success. Secure your spot today!

Jim Howell is the President of Perky's Pizza. With decades of experience in the global pizza industry, Jim has had a storied career spanning Domino's, Brugger's Bagels, and even running pizza operations in Europe and the Caribbean. He now leads Perky's Pizza, a pioneer in non-traditional food service spaces like family entertainment centers (FECs) and resorts. With a commitment to quality and innovation, Jim’s expertise in ingredient sourcing, operational efficiency, and customer satisfaction has made him a leader in his field. In this interview, Jim talks about how pizza rules the world, not following the trends, and the importance of meeting everybody.

"Pizza is the number one selling item in family entertainment centers, and nothing will replace it."

Jim’s passion for pizza is evident as he delves into why it dominates as the go-to food choice in FECs and beyond. He discusses the universal appeal of pizza, describing it as a versatile dish that’s familiar and accessible to guests of all ages. From thin crust to deep dish, Jim emphasizes that offering a dependable and delicious pizza experience is crucial to FEC success. Perky's Pizza focuses on maintaining high-quality standards while keeping operations simple and scalable. According to Jim, pizza isn't just a menu item—it's the backbone of FEC food programs, generating significant revenue and enhancing guest satisfaction.

"I hate trends because they’re not sustainable in family entertainment centers."

Jim cautions against chasing food trends, especially in the context of FECs. Drawing from decades of data, he argues that introducing trendy menu items like salads or gluten-free options often results in wasted resources, as these items rarely resonate with the core audience. Instead, Jim advises operators to focus on proven staples, particularly pizza, and to learn from larger chains like McDonald's, which invest heavily in research before launching new products. His philosophy is clear: stick with what works and avoid overcomplicating the menu with fleeting trends.

"Good old-fashioned networking is key—you never know where opportunities might come from."

Jim shares anecdotes from his career to highlight the value of building and maintaining relationships. From his early days working in Europe to his current role at Perky’s Pizza, Jim has leveraged connections to create new opportunities and grow his business. At industry events like IAAPA, Jim emphasizes the importance of engaging with everyone, whether they’re prospective clients or industry peers. By staying visible and approachable, he ensures that Perky's Pizza remains top-of-mind for operators looking to enhance their food programs.

To learn more about Perky’s Pizza or to connect with Jim, visit PerkysPizza.com or call their office at 813-855-7700. Jim is also reachable directly on his cell at 813-382-6044. Whether you’re planning a new FEC or looking to upgrade your food service, Jim and his team are ready to help you create a successful pizza program.

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