Johnny's Pizza House

From a tiny store with three parking spaces in 1967 to the largest locally owned pizza chain in North Louisiana, Johnny's Pizza has come a long way, tossing and turning the region's favorite pizza without fail day after day. Johnny Huntsman had always wanted to go into business for himself. But the only thing he knew at the time was how to make one heck of a pizza--learned while working at a pizza place in college. One day he passed by (what is now) the University of Louisiana at Monroe and saw a building for rent. And with some borrowed money he opened his first restaurant on DeSiard Street. There were no other pizza stores in Monroe in those days. And most people around had never eaten pizza. Things started off slow, and when a national chain came to town and started advertising in a big way, Huntsman thought it was over. Instead, the advertising created awareness about pizza, and Huntsman's product started to take hold and claim its own following. After fast growth in the 70s and 80s and a trickle-down effect from Louisiana's economy, times got tough. However, that's when Huntsman persevered and used brilliant grassroots marketing tactics, which included standing by the busiest intersection in Monroe, donned in a barrel, suspenders, sneakers and a ball cap with a sign that read "Please Eat Johnny's Pizza." As a result, in came the media and publicity. Huntsman did the same thing in Shreveport, and sales bounced back, rededicating the company's efforts to North Louisiana. Long known for great products (Johnny's consistently ranks as North Louisiana's favorite pizza) as well as outstanding community service, Johnny's Pizza House commands a large market share percentage. So many great years of terrific pizza. So many great years of community service. So many great years of believing in people. Thanks for the good times, Johnny!