The Enigmatic Origin of Boston Pizza

Do you ever wonder why some franchises have such intriguing names? Boston Pizza is one such enigma that has a fascinating backstory rooted in both Canadian and American history.

Franchise Name Convention in Canada: A Geographic Quirk

Tracing back to the late 1960s, Canadian businesses often imbue a foreign city or landmark to add an air of exoticism or prestige to their brand. Names like 'New York Fries', 'Montana’s Cookhouse', and 'Baton Rouge' are prime examples, each paying homage to their namesakes while solidifying their presence in the market.

Back to Boston: The Brand's Founding Journey

Boston Pizza, founded by Gus Agioritis, a Greek immigrant, started its journey in 1964 in London, Ontario. Though headquartered in Edmonton, Alberta, Agioritis felt a strong affinity towards the city of Boston. The name was a nod to his admiration for the city's brand recall and authority. This decision was pivotal, as Agioritis aimed to elevate his brand's status by borrowing from a more established and recognized urban landscape.

The Naming Controversy and Inspiration Behind Boston Pizza

It's not just the name that adds to the allure of Boston Pizza; the story of its naming is a curious one. In Gus Agioritis' early attempts, he had planned to call his restaurant 'Santorini Pizza' or 'Parthenon Pizza' after his homeland and a famous landmark. But both names were taken, leading to a brainstorming session that ultimately resulted in the whimsical name 'Boston Pizza'.

Jim Treliving, a regular customer, was influential in this decision. With a man named Bill Boston living above Agioritis, and the emerging sports star Bobby Orr making headlines, it was a lightbulb moment for Agioritis. Boston Pizza was born out of a combination of urban lore, sports, and everyday life.

The Heritage Behind a Canadian Icon

The first Boston Pizza was established in Edmonton, marking the beginning of a chain that has since grown exponentially. The brand has seen multiple owners, including Jim Treliving who became a franchisee just four years after the restaurant's opening. Today, Treliving is a well-known Canadian entrepreneur, recognized for his role in the popular TV show 'Dragon's Den'.

From its humble beginnings to becoming a household name, Boston Pizza has transformed into a beloved franchise. Delve deeper into the rich history of Edmonton’s iconic restaurant chains to discover more fascinating stories like the one behind Boston Pizza.

Rare Insights on Edmonton Chain Restaurants

To explore more of Edmonton's culinary and franchising history, check out Origins of Edmonton Chain Restaurants.