Chris Shimer's journey as a Capriotti's franchise partner is a compelling story of dedication, perseverance, and a deep passion for both business growth and community development. After working a successful career for nearly two decades in the nuclear power industry, Chris embarked on a significant career change that showcased his motivation and entrepreneurial spirit.
Chris's entrepreneurial journey began with his long-standing love for Capriotti's. As a frequent diner, he saw first-hand the top-notch quality, fresh ingredients, and brand values that Capriotti’s upholds.
Chris opened his first Capriotti’s in October 2020 when he made the bold decision to transition from a stable career to the world of entrepreneurship by opening his own Capriotti's take-out location in Philadelphia. Fast-forward three years, and Chris now owns and operates four successful Capriotti's locations.
Operating four locations demands hands-on involvement, and Chris remains dedicated to maintaining a strong presence in his stores. While he acknowledges the need to balance this with broader business operations, he continues to lead by example, working alongside his team to ensure the success of each location. “It’s really important for me to be visible and hands-on with my staff,” states Chris.
In April 2021, Chris took over an operating Capriotti's location in Springfield, PA. Just two months later, he opened his first full build-out store in Royersford, PA, marking a turning point in his journey. This period was a whirlwind of learning, adapting, and managing, with Chris focusing on defining the community's love for the brand and ensuring its success.
Community Engagement
Chris's commitment to community engagement extends far beyond the confines of his Capriotti's locations, as he has actively cultivated strong ties with local organizations to make a positive impact on the communities where his restaurants operate.
Chris's involvement in the community is marked by sponsorships that resonate with local residents. One notable example is the sponsorship of Thanksgiving 5K runs, a tradition that not only promotes health and fitness but also brings the community together during the holiday season.
“It is not just a duty; it's a calling to me to be actively engaged in the communities my Capriotti’s locations serve,” states Chris. “I am always thinking of new avenues through which I can make a meaningful impact.”
Generosity is another hallmark of Chris's community involvement. His commitment to giving back is exemplified through donations to local schools, a crucial source of support for educational programs and initiatives. Whether it's contributing to school fundraisers, supplying resources for extracurricular activities, or sponsoring academic competitions, Chris ensures that Capriotti's plays a vital role in fostering educational growth and excellence. Chris's involvement also extends to providing meals for teachers and staff in local schools, as well as providing meals to law enforcement agencies.
Chris also actively contributes to shaping the brand's future through his involvement in the Franchise Advisory Council.
Looking Ahead
Chris's ambitions extend beyond his current stores. He envisions a future where he successfully operates several Capriottti’s locations and continues to grow his Capriotti's presence throughout Pennsylvania.
Chris also acknowledges that his wife's support laid the foundation for his success as a Capriotti's franchise partner. Her belief in his abilities served as a catalyst for him to take the initial step into the world of franchising. And her unwavering faith in his vision provided the essential confidence he needed to embark on this entrepreneurial adventure.
IFA Franchisee of the Year
Chris was awarded a 2023 Franchisee of the Year at the Annual International Franchise Association (IFA) Convention that was held in Phoenix, AZ from February 17th - 20th, 2024. Alongside his wife, Chris accepted this notable award, recognizing him for his outstanding achievements as a valued franchise partner at Capriotti's and a valued franchisee in the IFA network.
In Chris Shimer's franchise journey with Capriotti's, every sandwich he serves is layered with dedication, community support, and a vision of growth. His story exemplifies the positive impact that our dedicated franchise partners have on the success of our brands and the communities they serve.
