From Delivery Driver to Multi-Unit Franchisee: Grant Ford’s Domino’s Journey

What began as a part-time job delivering pizzas while attending college has become a full-scale business venture for Domino’s franchisee Grant Ford. “I’ve always loved operations—being in the store, making pizzas, building camaraderie with my team,” he says. That passion for people and process has carried him from driver to managing seven stores, and now to owning a growing portfolio of Domino’s locations across Alabama.

Grant’s journey began in Murfreesboro, Tennessee, where he worked as a delivery driver while attending Middle Tennessee State University. After marrying his wife, Janell, in 2009, the couple moved to Florida to be closer to family. He picked up shifts at a local Domino’s and quickly advanced—first managing shifts, then running a full location, and eventually overseeing multiple stores for the franchisee.

In 2020, the Fords relocated to Birmingham, Alabama, where family roots and retiring franchisees presented new opportunities. Grant purchased his first two stores in November 2020, then expanded with two more in 2022. He recently opened a store in Columbiana and is preparing to launch a sixth in Centreville before the end of summer. “It’s a totally different side of the business,” he says. “Now I’m sitting at a desk, working on accounting and financing, instead of tossing dough.”

To support this growth, Grant partnered with Alliance Capital Corporation and SBA lending expert Sam Renta. “Sam is super easy to work with, always communicative and knows exactly what I need,” Grant says. “He’s done the legwork—connecting me with lenders, structuring SBA 7(a) loans for buildouts, equipment and working capital. He’s been a huge blessing for sure.”

Grant’s long-term goal isn’t just expansion—it’s empowerment. “I want to help others in my team franchise too,” he explains. “Some of them are great operators but may not have the capital. I want to mentor them and build a strong company of leaders who are also owners.”

Now living in Calera with Janell and their three children, Grant reflects on his journey with gratitude. “Whatever God has in store, I’m here for it,” he says. “I love what I do, and I love the Domino’s community. It’s a family I didn’t know existed.”