1985
Our Story
Looking at our past to better shape our future
OUR FOUNDER
Bill Graves
Founder &
Original Honey Badger
1962 - 2015
Bill's association with Domino's Pizza dates back to the 1980s, where he began as a delivery driver. In 1985, he opened his first store in Willmar, MN and went on to achieve a significant milestone in 2014 with the opening of his 100th store. In 2015, Bill celebrated 30 years as a Domino's Franchisee. Tragically, he passed away in an airplane crash on February 4, 2015, at the young age of 52. Bill's legacy lives on through the Domino's Legacy Store in Willmar, MN and the countless lives he touched during his lifetime.
Our Vision
Honey Badger Nation, where your dreams can become a reality
Our Mission
Delivering world class service by becoming the #1 employer of choice in the neighborhoods we serve
Susan Graves
Franchisee, Owner
With more than three decades of franchise experience, Susan is a seasoned professional in the industry. As an experienced QSR operator, she transitioned into the role of a Domino's Franchisee in 2015. Susan places a strong emphasis on fostering a supportive company culture and providing ample opportunities for employee growth. Her visionary approach to business has driven expansion through the development of new stores, acquisition of existing stores, and diversification of the company's investments through strategic real estate ventures.
Dave Randall
Operating Partner
As a key business partner of Bill's, Dave has made a significant contribution to the growth and success of the company over the past several decades. His extensive knowledge of the Domino's brand provides a solid foundation in an ever-changing marketplace. Dave's unwavering focus on improving operations and providing training has continually driven Team Honey Badger forward. He has been instrumental in the advancement of standout employees and has served as a mentor for the company's future leaders.
144 Stores. 10 States.
1985 1st Store Opening
After several years of working in a Domino's Pizza store, Bill became an official Domino's franchisee and opened his first location in Willmar, MN at Apple Tree Square in 1985.
2012 Team Honey Badger
In 2012, Bill selected the Honey Badger as the mascot for his Domino's business. He felt that the Honey Badger's motto "not giving a s***" not only conveyed humor, but also reflected the company's forward-thinking and innovative spirit.
2015 Company Turns 30
In early 2015, Bill achieved another remarkable milestone by surpassing 30 consecutive years as a Domino's Franchisee.
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2017 Renewed Focus
In 2017, the company underwent a reevaluation of its identity and direction. As a result of this process, the company created a fresh set of guiding principles, including a new mission statement, vision, and core values, to direct the actions of the organization and its team members.
2011 50th Store Opening
By 2011, the company had achieved rapid growth through the opening of new stores and strategic acquisitions. At this time, Bill opened his 50th store in February 2011, a remarkable accomplishment achieved by only a select few within the Domino's franchise network.
2014 100th Store Opening
In 2014, Bill reached a significant milestone in the company's history with the opening of his 100th store in Tallmadge, OH. The grand opening was a noteworthy event, attracting employees from across the company to celebrate the occasion.
2015 New Franchisee
Upon the tragic passing of her husband, Bill, Susan Graves stepped in as Franchisee to continue the legacy of her late husband and to usher in a new era for the company.
2019 Company Rebranding
The company underwent a rebranding in 2019 that involved creating a new, simplified logo design. As part of this change, the honey badger emblem was removed, and the overall design was streamlined.
2018 Legacy Store Opening
On November 5th, 2018, a special store was built in Willmar, MN to commemorate Bill's impact on Domino's and the Willmar community. This store, located in the town where he opened his first store, is the only Domino's in the U.S. that departs from the standard branding. The store showcases images of Bill and a wall honoring his legacy with the company.
2023 Company Rebranding
In 2023, the company revised its logo to accurately reflect its current state and pay homage to its history with an updated Honey Badger design.
GOLD FRANNY
Domino's Gold Franny Recipient
The Gold Franny Award is the most prestigious honor bestowed on a Domino’s franchise owner. The award is based on several key factors including operational audit scores, community involvement, store safety and security, and team member morale.
