Hungry Howie’s: A Legacy of Flavor, Innovation, and Community

Hungry Howie’s Pizza & Subs, commonly referred to as Hungry Howie’s, is a beloved American pizza franchise renowned for its signature Flavored Crust® pizzas. Since its founding in 1973, the brand has grown from a single pizzeria in Michigan to a sprawling network of over 500 locations across more than 20 states. With a steadfast commitment to quality ingredients, innovative menu offerings, and exceptional customer service, Hungry Howie’s has carved out a unique niche in the competitive pizza industry. Its ability to adapt to changing consumer preferences while staying true to its roots has made it a household name for pizza lovers nationwide.

The Origins: A Humble Beginning

Hungry Howie’s was born in 1973 in Taylor, Michigan, when founder James R. Hearn opened the first location in a converted hamburger shop. Hearn’s vision was simple: to create a pizzeria that offered fresh, handmade pizzas with a focus on quality and customer satisfaction. The restaurant quickly became a local favorite, attracting a loyal following with its delicious pizzas and friendly, community-oriented atmosphere.

One of the most pivotal figures in the company’s history is Steve Jackson, who started as a delivery driver and eventually rose to become the company’s CEO. Jackson’s hands-on experience and deep understanding of the business allowed him to recognize the potential for growth. Under his leadership, Hungry Howie’s transitioned from a single-store operation to a franchise-driven business model. By 1982, just nine years after its founding, the first franchised location opened in Southgate, Michigan, marking the beginning of the brand’s nationwide expansion.

Flavored Crust®: A Revolutionary Innovation

In 1985, Hungry Howie’s introduced its now-iconic Flavored Crust® pizza, a groundbreaking concept that set it apart from competitors. While most pizzerias offered plain crusts, Hungry Howie’s allowed customers to enhance their pizza experience with a variety of flavorful crust options. The original eight flavors included:

Butter – A classic, rich flavor.

Garlic Herb – A savory blend of garlic and herbs.

Onion – A subtle, aromatic option.

Cajun – A spicy kick for bold flavor lovers.

Ranch – A creamy, tangy favorite.

Sesame – A nutty, crunchy twist.

Butter Cheese – A cheesy, buttery delight.

Asiago Cheese – A sharp, gourmet flavor.

This innovation not only differentiated Hungry Howie’s from other pizza chains but also created a loyal customer base that appreciated the ability to customize their pizzas. Over the years, the brand has expanded its Flavored Crust® lineup to include over 10 options, ensuring there’s something to satisfy every palate.

Franchise Growth and Nationwide Expansion

The success of the Flavored Crust® pizza fueled Hungry Howie’s rapid growth throughout the 1980s and 1990s. The company adopted an aggressive franchising strategy, allowing it to expand beyond Michigan and into states like Florida, Georgia, Ohio, and beyond. By the early 2000s, Hungry Howie’s had established itself as one of the top 10 pizza franchises in the United States, competing with industry giants like Domino’s, Pizza Hut, and Papa John’s.

Key to this growth was the brand’s focus on affordability, quality, and convenience. Hungry Howie’s positioned itself as a family-friendly pizzeria that offered great value for money, making it a popular choice for families, college students, and budget-conscious consumers. The company also emphasized fast service and a welcoming atmosphere, ensuring that customers kept coming back.

Embracing Technology in the 21st Century

Hungry Howie’s has consistently been at the forefront of technological innovation in the pizza industry. In the early 2000s, it was one of the first pizza chains to implement online ordering, allowing customers to customize and place their orders with ease. This move not only improved convenience but also set the stage for further digital advancements.

Other key technological innovations include:

Mobile App: Launched to provide a seamless ordering experience, the app allows customers to place orders, track deliveries, and access exclusive promotions.

Contactless Delivery and Carryout: Introduced during the COVID-19 pandemic, these options prioritized customer safety and convenience.

Loyalty Programs: Rewards programs incentivize repeat business by offering discounts, free items, and special deals to loyal customers.

By embracing these technologies, Hungry Howie’s has remained competitive in an increasingly digital world, meeting the evolving needs of its customers.

Commitment to Community: The Love, Hope & Pizza Campaign

Hungry Howie’s is more than just a pizza chain—it’s a brand that cares deeply about its communities. In 2009, the company launched the "Love, Hope & Pizza" campaign to support breast cancer research and awareness. Each October, during Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Hungry Howie’s sells pizzas in special pink boxes and donates a portion of the proceeds to the National Breast Cancer Foundation (NBCF). Over the years, this initiative has raised millions of dollars to fund research, early detection programs, and patient support services.

The campaign has not only made a significant impact in the fight against breast cancer but has also strengthened the bond between Hungry Howie’s and its customers. By aligning itself with a cause that resonates with so many, the brand has demonstrated its commitment to making a positive difference in the world.

The Menu: A Diverse Array of Options

While pizza is the cornerstone of Hungry Howie’s menu, the brand offers a wide variety of other delicious options to cater to different tastes and preferences. Some of the standout items include:

Subs and Sandwiches: Made with fresh ingredients and served on oven-baked bread, these are a great alternative to pizza.

Howie Bread: A fan-favorite cheesy breadstick served with a choice of dipping sauces.

Salads: Freshly prepared with crisp greens and a variety of toppings, perfect for those seeking a lighter meal.

Howie Wings: Available in flavors like BBQ, Buffalo, and Asian-inspired sauces, these wings are a hit for game day or any occasion.

Desserts: Indulgent treats like Howie Brownies and Howie Cookies provide a sweet ending to any meal.

This diverse menu ensures that Hungry Howie’s has something for everyone, whether they’re craving pizza, sandwiches, or something in between.

Looking Ahead: A Bright Future for Hungry Howie’s

Today, Hungry Howie’s operates over 500 locations across the United States and continues to grow. The brand remains committed to its core values of quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction, which have been the driving forces behind its success. Looking ahead, Hungry Howie’s has ambitious plans for the future, including:

Expanding into New Markets: The brand aims to bring its unique Flavored Crust® pizzas to even more states across the country.

Menu Innovations: Introducing new flavors, limited-time offers, and creative menu items to keep customers excited.

Technology Investments: Continuing to enhance the digital ordering experience with new features and improvements.

From its humble beginnings in a small Michigan town to its status as a national pizza powerhouse, Hungry Howie’s has built a legacy defined by flavor, innovation, and community involvement. Its iconic Flavored Crust® pizzas, commitment to quality, and dedication to giving back have made it a standout in the pizza industry. As Hungry Howie’s looks to the future, it remains focused on delivering exceptional experiences and delicious food, one pizza at a time.