Jonathan Cowan picked a tough time to start in business. He purchased an Old Town Pizza Company franchise at 11128 W. 179th St in 2008, just as the economy started its tumble.

But two-and-a-half years later, he is still in business in an area with plenty of established pizzerias.

Along the way, he and his wife Brianna learned a few lessons about thriving in a tough economy:

• Pre-portioning cheese for different pizza sizes saves them about $10,000 a year. More precise amounts and fewer spills
• Installing an air conditioner was worth it, even with higher electricity costs. Employees are happier and their equipment is less taxed by heat
• Keeping only about three days of fresh ingredients on hand instead of two weeks worth — which was done there before — means less waste
• Take advice from successful people
• Be willing to help fellow businesses in your field
• Train each employee to do every job needed

PLEASE VISIT the Old World Pizza Comapny listing in the Patch Places directory for more information.