For Yasir Hussain, the pizza business isn’t just a job – it’s a lifelong passion. His journey from working in a pizza restaurant to a successful multi-unit franchise partner of Papa Johns is a testament to his relentless drive, work ethic and the opportunities Papa Johns provides for those willing to embrace them. Recently, Yasir helped Papa Johns reach a major milestone by opening the company’s 6,000th restaurant.
Developing a passion for pizza
Yasir’s story began over two decades ago when he took his first job in the pizza industry as a dishwasher. With an entrepreneurial mindset, Yasir embraced the opportunity to learn about the business.
“For me, it was never about the title,” Yasir said. “It was about doing my job to the best of my ability. I wanted to be the best dishwasher in the company.”
His commitment and hard work paid off. Over the course of six years, he served in multiple roles before becoming a restaurant manager, eventually overseeing multiple locations. In 2019, Yasir made a pivotal decision to open his own restaurant as a new Papa Johns franchisee.
Building a business, one restaurant at a time
Yasir’s journey as a franchise owner began with a single location. Today, he operates 12 successful Papa Johns restaurants and has plans for even more expansion. With another restaurant soon to open in Ohio, Yasir is showing no signs of slowing down.
“I opened three stores last year and I’m building another in Cleveland,” Yasir said. “Growth is something I love – I can’t live without it.”
His success, he says, is rooted in his ability to assess potential locations carefully, analyze trade areas and foster a strong culture among the team members within his restaurants. For Yasir, running a business isn’t just about numbers – it’s about people.
The power of culture and teamwork
Yasir attributes much of his success to the team he has built within his restaurants. He believes in creating a welcoming, family-like culture, where team members feel valued and empowered to go the extra mile.
“My team members work hard to ensure that we uphold the brand’s standards,” Yasir said. “We all want to make sure we deliver on the promise to customers Papa Johns has established.”
His leadership style focuses on instilling pride, teamwork and a shared commitment to quality service. According to Yasir, these elements have driven the success of his growing portfolio of restaurants.
Realizing his own American dream
Originally moving to the U.S. at a young age, Yasir considers earning his U.S. citizenship and becoming a franchise owner as his two biggest accomplishments.
“Papa Johns gave me the opportunity to prove myself as a business owner,” Yasir said. “It helped me achieve my version of the American dream.”
He is passionate about sharing his journey with others, encouraging aspiring entrepreneurs to consider franchising with Papa Johns.
“If someone is like me and wants to start with one restaurant and has a mindset to continue growing, this is one of the best ways to achieve it,” Yasir said. “Papa Johns is my family now, and I am very thankful for everything they have done for me.”
Looking ahead
With 12 restaurants and counting, Yasir isn’t stopping anytime soon. He plans to continue expanding and bringing Papa Johns quality pizza and service to new communities.
“I like taking on challenges and I thrive on growth,” Yasir said. “The journey has been incredible, and I’m excited for what’s ahead.”
As Papa Johns celebrates its 6,000th restaurant milestone, Yasir’s story stands as a shining example of perseverance, dedication and what’s possible when passion meets opportunity.
