Business Spotlight: Papa Murphy’s

In an inspiring display of ambition and drive, 17-year-old entrepreneur Lily Wilford has made a remarkable move in the business world by purchasing a Papa Murphy's franchise in Sioux City, Iowa. This achievement places Wilford in a group proving that age is no barrier to entrepreneurial success.

A Young Visionary with Big Dreams

At just 17, Lily is no stranger to the value of hard work and perseverance. While many teenagers are focused on high school and college plans, Lily decided until she knew exactly what her college plans were, she’d instead become a business owner. With the help of her parents, Brad & Kathie, Lily saw an opportunity to invest in a brand with a proven track record and a strong customer base.

“I was an employee at the store, and when the opportunity came about to buy this Papa Murphy’s, I knew it was the right fit,” said Wilford. “The concept of a take-and-bake pizza, combined with a well-established brand, was too good to pass up.”

A Bold Move in the Local Business Landscape

Purchasing a franchise at such a young age is no small feat. Not being of legal age meant no signing contracts (at least for now), so again with the help of her parents, she began navigating the complexities of franchise ownership.

“We see a gap in the Sioux City market for take-and-bake pizza, and I believe what Papa Murphy’s offers with fresh ingredients and made to order pizza, resonates with the local community,” Wilford shared. “It’s an exciting time, and I’m ready to put in the work to make this franchise a success.”

With the franchise in place, Lily is focused on building a strong team, providing excellent customer service, and creating a welcoming environment for all who visit the store.

Looking to the Future

As Wilford continues to learn and grow in the world of business, the young entrepreneur’s sights are set on future expansion. With a successful start in Sioux City, she’s already thinking about ways to take her franchise to new heights, including the possibility of opening additional locations.

For now, though, the focus is on building a solid foundation in Sioux City, creating a business that is both profitable and community-oriented. Lily is a testament to the power of determination, hard work, and a passion for success.

At just 17, Lily Wilford has already achieved something that many adults aspire to, and it’s clear that the future holds even more exciting opportunities for this driven young entrepreneur.