Schools Cancelled? No Problem. Local Franchisee Donates Domino’s Smart Slice™ Pizzas to Local Shelters, Fire Stations and Police Departments

Domino’s in Santa Maria, California, donated pizzas to the Santa Maria Police Department on Jan. 12, 2023.

When extreme weather hit California and caused schools to close for multiple days, Tareq Hishmeh, who owns Domino’s in Santa Maria, California, wondered what he was going to do with all the Domino’s Smart Slice pizzas he supplied to local schools for their lunch programs.

Domino's Smart Slice pizzas are designed specifically to meet USDA meal regulation patterns for kids in schools, and are made up of delicious and nutritious dough, cheese, sauce and toppings.

“We didn’t have a timeline as to when the students would be back in school,” said Tareq. “The storms caused a lot of flooding and damage in the area. We didn’t want all that fresh product to go to waste, so our team decided to make the pizzas and serve them to local shelters, fire stations and police departments.”

On Jan. 12, Domino’s Supervisor Luis Diaz, General Manager Brian Ferguson and team members Esperanza Contreras, Tyler Lukas, Erica Raymundo, and Maria Blanco came together at the Santa Maria store, located at 3450 Orcutt Road, and made 240 pizzas to distribute around the city.

“It’s been a rough week in California with heavy rain, flooding and outages,” said Samantha Hishmeh, vice president of operations at Team Hishmeh (the local franchise organization). “I'm very thankful for the generous nature of our team for encouraging donations, and for the team members in that store who initiated this act during a time when the extreme weather was affecting our community the most. Delivering delicious, hot pizza is our specialty, and doing it at a time when people were least expecting a free, hot meal was the best way we could give back to our community after an onslaught of storms ravaged our area.”

The Santa Maria Police Department was just one of the surprise deliveries that day.

“We received a special delivery that was completely unexpected,” said the Daniel Meraz, police officer at Santa Maria Police Department. “More than a dozen pizzas were dropped off to our police department. We want to say thank you to Domino’s for this kind gesture. It’s been a rough couple of days due to the storm.”

The local Domino’s team in Santa Maria was happy to turn a negative situation into a positive one.

“We are glad we could make a small impact on our local community one Domino’s Smart Slice pizza at a time,” said Tareq. “The police officers and firefighters were working hard during the storms, so feeding them was just our way of showing our gratitude for all their hard work and dedication to our community. Our local shelters provide food and care for our community members that need it the most. Our job, as a local business, is to support their efforts. We are glad that we could turn a few people’s days around.”

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Domino’s Celebrates International Women’s Day

In honor of International Women’s Day, Domino’s local supply chain center team members brought pizza and donations to staff at Maggie’s Place in Phoenix on March 8, 2023.

International Women's Day (IWD) is a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women. Recognized annually on March 8, the day marks a call to action for accelerating gender equity. People worldwide come together to celebrate women’s achievements and rally for women’s equality.

A core IWD mission is empowerment, which is described as shining a spotlight on activity that uplifts and inspires women to pursue goals without bias or barrier. To honor IWD and this mission, Domino’s team members across the country visited the following women’s shelters in their communities to recognize the work the organizations do every day:

• Maggie’s Place (Phoenix, Arizona): committed to serving mothers – upholding dignity, providing support for those experiencing barriers to thriving, and building an inclusive, trauma-informed community
• Marian House (Baltimore, Maryland): provides a safe, sober, and loving environment that challenges women to respect and love themselves, confront emotional and socioeconomic barriers, and transition to stable and independent lives
• Safe Harbor (Richmond, Virginia): provides the support that survivors of sexual and domestic violence and human trafficking need to overcome their crisis and to transform their lives
• House Center (Ann Arbor, Michigan): dedicated to providing safety, advocacy, and resources to survivors of relationship violence, and to work relentlessly for systemic change
• Tubman Center (Minneapolis, Minnesota): works to advance opportunities for change so that every person can experience safety, hope and healing

Team members representing a variety of teams from Domino’s – graphic design, supply chain, corporate operations and more – learned about their local organization’s missions and brought respite through pizza lunches and dinners for clients and staff. They brought donations of gift cards and other much-needed items like phone chargers, planners, toiletries, safety equipment, bedding, food pantry items and more.

“At Maggie's Place, so much happens around food! Each support group begins with a meal for our moms and kiddos, and the community conversations, love and support that happens during meal time is invaluable,” said Whitney Thistle, Maggie’s Place vice president of philanthropy. “With four maternity homes and a busy Family Success Center, receiving the delicious meals from Domino's made our moms and staff feel so loved.”

Domino’s began humbly and our history of starting small and dreaming big remains at the core of our brand. It’s a purpose-inspired company with exceptional people dedicated to feeding the power of possible, one pizza at a time. We believe in delivering a difference to our communities and helping people – like the women served by these amazing organizations – to reach their full potential.

To learn more about International Women’s Day, visit internationalwomensday.com.

Domino’s Celebrates International Women’s Day

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Domino’s Delivers Trees to Dallas

Domino’s is continuing its partnership with One Tree Planted for the fourth year in a row by supporting an urban forestry project in Dallas, Texas, where volunteers plant high-impact trees throughout community orchards.

Having a positive impact on the environment, as well as throughout communities across the U.S., is something that Domino’s is deeply passionate about. To effect positive change, Domino’s is proud to support One Tree Planted, a nonprofit organization whose mission is to restore nature, communities and biodiversity through global reforestation.

In 2020 and 2021, Domino’s funded the planting of 100,000 trees in multiple national forests, state forests, and watersheds across North America. In 2022, Domino’s continued its partnership with One Tree Planted by supporting an urban forestry project in Dallas, Texas, to plant high-impact trees at community orchards through early 2023. They include peach, plum, pear, apple, cherry, mulberry, fig and other fruit-bearing trees, which provide countless benefits for local communities. As one of the hottest and most densely populated cities in the country, Dallas has more than 1.2 million people. Trees in cities like Dallas help reduce urban heat and provide green spaces, which promote community health, wellness, and recreation.

Domino’s support of the community orchard project helped to bring 180 trees to Dallas, which will sequester more than 375 tons of carbon and absorb about 3.1 million gallons of stormwater, reducing runoff and risks of urban flooding. The trees will also remove about 2,500 pounds of pollutants from the air. These climate impacts will inevitably bring health benefits to the area and its residents by reducing risk of heat-related and respiratory illnesses.

“One Tree Planted is proud to collaborate with Domino’s and local partners Giving Grove and GROW North Texas on such an impactful project,” said Tanner Haid, director of urban forestry at One Tree Planted. “These trees will create a lasting legacy in these neighborhoods for generations to come.”

Volunteers will plant the trees across 13 orchards, which are located at schools, churches, community gardens and other public spaces that are within walking distance for an estimated 12,000 urban residents. The green spaces will serve as sites for gathering and community-building, as well as destinations for school programs and other recreation. While trees at six sites are already in the ground, the remaining trees will be planted by the end of February 2023.

“The GROW North Texas Giving Grove is the first and only community orcharding program in the North Texas region,” said Geri Strong, Giving Grove program manager for GROW North Texas. “We are part of a national network of urban orchards in 10 major U.S. cities, which allows us to implement best practices and ensure that generations will benefit from the trees planted this year.”

Domino’s work with One Tree Planted is just beginning though. In 2023, Domino’s will donate $100,000 to One Tree Planted’s U.S. Urban Tree Equity Fund to continue addressing environmental justice issues and help communities achieve tree equity.

To learn more about the Urban Tree Equity Fund and how you can help, click here.

Meet Richard Osita: Domino’s Black Franchisee Opportunity Fund Recipient

In celebration of Black History Month, we’re highlighting one of the many outstanding recipients of Domino’s Black Franchisee Opportunity Fund.

Richard Osita emigrated from Nigeria to the U.S. in 2018 with the dream of having his own business. His dream became a reality when he opened his first Domino’s store in Winter Park, Colorado, in 2022.

Domino’s Black Franchisee Opportunity Fund is a key part of the brand’s commitment to supporting Black team members on their journey to entrepreneurship. The goal of the fund is to help Black team members overcome what is often the biggest obstacle to franchising – the initial capital. Domino’s created the fund in 2020 as a way to continue providing opportunity and making it more accessible. Recipients receive $50,000 in working capital towards the purchase or build of their first store, as well as assistance with expenses related to attending Domino’s Franchise Management School, which every franchisee must complete. The fund also provides opportunities for mentorship from established franchisees throughout the franchising process.

Since the fund’s inception, 12 individuals have received the grant. One of those recipients is Richard Osita. With the help of the Black Franchisee Opportunity Fund, Richard became a franchisee, opening his first store in Winter Park, Colorado, in 2022.

Richard moved from Nigeria to the United States in 2018 after he graduated from college with a degree in computer science. He was splitting his time between shifts at McDonald’s and a Domino’s store in Dillon, Colorado, which was owned by franchisee James Haydon. However, he eventually decided to work full-time at Domino’s, as his managers shared their passion and love of the job with him, and it was contagious. In less than a year, Richard grew from a customer service representative to an assistant manager and then a general manager. In 2021, he was promoted to district manager of four stores across the Denver area.

“It was clear from day one that Richard had goals and determination far beyond anyone that I have worked with in this industry in the last 36 years,” said Genelle Bunce, director of operations for James’ franchise. “Richard has always embodied and demonstrated our company DNA: equip people, be consistent, value people, live/work intentionally, exceed expectations, grow daily, be a catalyst for transformation, lead by example, choose a positive attitude and have fun!”

Genelle added that Richard was personally responsible for recruiting, hiring, training and developing two teams of managers in the past few years.

“Despite hiring challenges, seasonal sales volume, a difficult delivery area, constant weather challenges and then the challenges that COVID presented him, Richard chose every day to rise above those challenges and adapt as a leader with a positive attitude,” she said.

So why did Richard decide to make the jump from general manager to franchisee?

“I have always been interested in having my own business or establishment,” he said. “I shared my thoughts with my superiors, and the support I received was one of many reasons I decided to stick with Domino’s. I have never been with a brand that supports team members as much as Domino’s does.”

So what’s next for Richard?

“I am not going to be slowing down,” he said. “I have my foot on the throttle and I don’t intend to brake. One store down and 29 more to go!”

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Happy Future Farmers of America Week, From Domino’s

Domino’s awards Supervised Agriculture Experience grants to 100 students each year. One of the 2022 grants went to Anna Grohs, whose projects were dedicated to animal care and medicine.

Feb. 18-25, 2023, is National Future Farmers of America Week and Domino’s is excited to partake in the celebration. During this time, FFA chapters across the nation will show their pride by participating in events that develop their skills and display the positive impact FFA has on its members and the future of agriculture.

Since Domino’s and FFA’s partnership began in 2017, Domino’s has awarded 100 students with Supervised Agriculture Experience (SAE) grants annually, wherein they conduct agriculture projects unique to their interests. SAEs allow FFA students to gain real life experiences based what they learn in the classroom. Domino’s has previously awarded SAE grants to student projects ranging from raising lambs and egg laying to salsa canning and goldfish breeding!

Anna Grohs, 12th grader and Liberty FFA member in Virginia, was awarded a Domino’s-sponsored SAE grant in 2022 for her projects dedicated to animal care and medicine.

Anna’s main project applies her knowledge of genetics to goat production where she selectively manipulates genes to result in healthier, more desirable offspring. With this grant, she breeds goats by meticulously increasing desirable genes and diminishing undesirable ones. In addition to this, Anna has another project which involves raising show pigs and teaching them to follow basic commands.

“To me, FFA means knowledge,” said Anna. “I have gained so much knowledge from my FFA teachers, agricultural science classes, hands-on projects and participating in competitions. I would not be where I am today without FFA.”

Anna takes pride in sharing what she’s learned with others. Part of Anna’s SAE involves promoting agriculture in her community by offering free farm tours to local children. She also uses her goats to clear landscapes for neighboring farms and serves as a consult on raising and breeding farm animals to others.

Not only has Anna had success through her SAE, she placed first in the 2022 Virginia State Veterinary Science Competition. In the future, she hopes to earn a bachelor’s degree in biomedical engineering and from there attend the Virginia Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine.

Domino’s support of FFA leaves a positive impact as they provide the foundation for the future of food, agriculture and environmental consciousness in America. Through the sponsorship of SAE grants, Domino’s fosters the next generation of innovation, creativity and sustainability in agriculture. With the current five-year, $1.5 million commitment to FFA, Domino’s will help fund the development of sustainable agriculture resources, collegiate scholarships and SAE grants.

To learn more about FFA and SAEs, click here.

Domino’s Team Members Reflect on Black History Month

In celebration of Black History Month, Domino’s employee resource group, BLISS (Black Leaders Innovating, Strategizing and Succeeding), asked members to share a little bit about themselves, and what the month means to them.

“To me, Black History Month gives us an opportunity to celebrate the leaders and communities that uplift us and tell the story of the Black experience in this country. During this time we can showcase the efforts, sacrifices and contributions that Black Americans have made that ultimately influence this history and even the future of America.” – Lauren Golden-Sims, Domino’s manager of digital innovation

“I have always had a passion for promoting diversity and inclusion in the workplace. Several years ago, when upper leadership pushed to place a focus on inclusion and diversity, I was honor to be a part of building the vision of I&D at Domino's in the early months. I am so proud of our I&D team and the growth of our ERG groups.” – Joi Thornton, Domino’s manager of human resources

“Black History Month is an opportunity to celebrate how far we've come and educate one another on what we can do to create more equity and inclusion for Black members of our community. It's a time where we can share stories and perspectives, learn about the history of this country, and what we can do collectively to help create an environment where we can all thrive.” – Stacie Barrett, Domino’s director of internal communications

“For me, Black History Month means many things. Recognizing and honoring the contributions of Black leaders and trailblazers, raising awareness of the ongoing struggle for equality/equity, and an opportunity to educate/learn. Ultimately, I think of Black History Month as a great opportunity to acknowledge (and honor the past) and welcome (and shape) the future, with the goal of creating a true ‘Community of Unity.’” – Justin Latham, Domino’s ERP systems engineer II

“Black History Month is a remarkable time of celebration and hope. Often times being Black you feel like you have to be a constant educator on all things Black culture, but during Black History Month it feels like we actually get to celebrate our Blackness and educate people on our accomplishments. For me, Black History Month is the ultimate celebration and spotlight for every accomplishment made in the Black community. It is a monthlong party highlighting the great people that paved the way for me to be where I am today and a celebration of the woman I get to be thanks to them It is unbelievably special.” – Gabriella Medvick, Domino’s talent acquisition specialist

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Domino’s Newest Menu Item, Loaded Tots, are Coming in Hot, Just in Time for the Big Game

Domino’s Loaded Tots are golden brown potato tots which are topped to perfection and oven baked.

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After much speculation and anticipation, Domino’s newest menu item, Loaded Tots, is now available in stores across the country! How would we describe it? Loaded Tots are all the best parts of pizza, but on tots! They’re crispy tots loaded with melty cheese and mouthwatering toppings, and come in the following three varieties:

• Philly Cheese Steak
• Cheddar Bacon
• Melty 3-Cheese

“We’re excited to bring potatoes to Domino’s national menu for the first time, just in time for the biggest football game of the year,” said Kate Trumbull, Domino’s senior vice president of brand and product innovation. “Loaded Tots make the perfect addition to any party spread. Whether you want a side item to accompany pizza or are looking for an overall crowd-pleaser, Loaded Tots are sure to impress. Potato, pototo – whatever way you say it, Domino’s Loaded Tots are delicious.”

Each order comes with golden brown potato tots which are topped to perfection and oven baked. Domino’s Philly Cheese Steak Loaded Tots feature tender slices of steak, creamy Alfredo sauce, fresh onions, fresh green peppers, and a blend of mozzarella and cheddar cheese. The Cheddar Bacon Loaded Tots are topped with smokey bacon, mozzarella, cheddar and garlic Parmesan sauce. Domino’s Melty 3-Cheese Loaded Tots are covered with mozzarella, cheddar, provolone and creamy Alfredo sauce.

Looking for a great deal for the big football game? You’re in luck. Loaded Tots are included in Domino’s Mix & Match Deal – they are $6.99 each when customers choose any two or more Mix & Match menu items.

Fun Game Day Stats

• Domino’s in the U.S. typically sells around 2 million pizzas on football’s biggest Sunday – about 30% more than on a normal Sunday.
• The most popular pizza topping for the football event of the year is pepperoni.
• While Domino’s stores throughout Philadelphia and Kansas City will see high sales at the beginning of the game, the city of the winning team will likely see higher sales at the end of the night.
• During last year’s game, Domino’s sold enough pizzas to stretch across about 7,000 football fields.

To order Loaded Tots for carryout or delivery today, visit dominos.com.

The Bhatti Family Came to America for Opportunity and Found Prosperity at Domino’s

Like father, like son: Domino’s franchisee Harry Bhatti started working for the brand as a part-time team member, just like his dad.

Harry Bhatti was just 10 years old when his family came to the United States from Amritsar, India. His father, Harjit, moved the family to Houston, Texas, hoping it would provide more opportunities for them.

As soon as the Bhatti family arrived in Houston, Harjit applied and was hired as a delivery driver at a local Domino’s. He saw the opportunity that came as a delivery driver – making an honest wage and receiving cash tips every day to support his family. He fell in love with the Domino’s brand and recognized the potential of the business model, including the opportunity to work his way up within the business. Harjit was promoted to an assistant manager and eventually became a general manager. He hoped that one day, his son Harry could also work for the Domino’s brand, and with hard work, become successful.

“I watched my dad work long hours to support our family,” said Harry. “He was still raising our family and helping my mother get an education. He was happy and enjoyed what he was doing at Domino’s. He would tell me when I was old enough, I could work hard for the Domino’s brand and it would change our future.”

Harry started working as a customer service representative at Domino’s in Houston in 2005 when he was 15 years old. It didn’t take long for him to advance in the business. He moved up the ranks from assistant manager to general manager – where for several years he earned five stars on all his Operations Evaluation Reports. Soon after that he became a supervisor. On Oct. 31, 2022, Harry’s dream became a reality and he opened his very own Domino’s store in Renton, Washington.

“I knew I was going to become a Domino’s franchise owner when I was 16 years old,” said Harry. “I worked hard like my dad said and waited for the right opportunity. The Domino’s in Renton was the right store for me to shine. Luckily, the steps I took were correct and I finally made it.”

Harry’s words of advice for anyone looking to advance are that hard work and determination pay off.

“Stick to a plan and focus on that plan,” said Harry. “It doesn’t matter which field of work you are in, if you work hard and learn everything you can about that field, you will be successful in that field. Have goals and crush them. Think about your future and what you are going to do next. Have a plan. You will get there.”

Harry was able to franchise just 28 days after graduating from Domino’s Franchise Management School.

“Owning my own Domino’s store means the world to me,” said Harry. I always will wear the Domino’s logo with pride. My first paycheck was from Domino’s and my last paycheck will be from my Domino’s store. My name is Harry, and I am Domino’s Pizza!”

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