Carl Comeaux

Carl Comeaux is the CEO of Crust Pizza Co., a fast-growing limited-service pizza chain that
has redefined the local pizzeria experience. Known for its inviting interior design inspired by
classic Chicago elements, Crust Pizza locations feature old Chicago brick, light wood
accents, and industrial touches like open ceilings and exposed stainless-steel ductwork.
With comfortable booths perfect for family outings or date nights and a fenced patio where
kids can play while adults unwind, Crust Pizza caters to everyone.
With over 22 years of leadership experience, Carl has led Crust Pizza Co.'s transformation
from a small local pizzeria to a rapidly expanding franchise with 29 open locations, 9 in
development and aims to reach 250 locations across the Southeast U.S. within the next
nine years. Under Carl's leadership, Crust Pizza Co. has achieved impressive milestones,
including an average unit volume (AUV) of $1.65 million, the development of proprietary
technology systems, a 10% reduction in cost of goods, and strategic vendor partnerships to
enhance brand efficiency. Additionally, Carl has successfully built and scaled two
franchises before Crust Pizza Co., showcasing his proven expertise in the industry.
Carl is known for his motivational, strategic leadership style and his hands-on approach to
scaling concepts from infancy to franchise success. He believes in building a strong team
and putting the right people in the right roles to drive growth. Carl has shared his insights

on industry panels, focusing on topics like unit economics, work-life balance for high-
performance, business development, and leadership.

In addition to his work with Crust Pizza, Carl is committed to giving back, recently
partnering with St. Jude’s to reach a $100,000 fundraising goal. Each year, Crust Pizza Co.
adopts a new charity, underscoring Carl’s belief that “the more you give, the more you
receive.”
Carl holds a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in Exercise Physiology from McNeese State
University and lives in Lake Charles, LA, with his wife Amber and their three children: Lola,
Graham, and Reece, as well as their Maltese, Gus. In his free time, he enjoys riding his
Harley Davidson, vacationing at the beach with his family, and playing tennis.