On November 15, 1983, Sam and Sue Sayre began operating Sam’s Pizza in Smithville. They had been in the food business for two years prior to that as owners of the Golden Bear Drive-In located in Apple Creek, Ohio. In 1986, they sold the Golden Bear and put all their effort into creating a high quality pizza business. Many changes have taken place over the years; for example, they’ve replaced their small double deck oven with the largest one available at the time. They also upgraded some other equipment to make the business run more smoothly. Despite all the changes made in the equipment, they never lost sight of their goal of providing the best possible product at a family friendly price.

In 1992, Sam’s took a major step in opening a store in Marshallville. Despite being told by many people that Marshallville was to small, they opened the Marshallville store on July 7, 1992. They believed that Marshallville needed and wanted a pizza shop, and knew it would take a long time to build a business but were willing to stay the course to provide this service to the Marshallville Community. In March 2001, Sam’s created the Marshallville Dairiette inside the Sam’s Store. Once again, they knew, despite the huge investment, Marshallville needed someplace to get an ice cream treat like other towns.

In July 2003, Sam’s purchased the Village Market in Smithville. After several months Phase One of the remodeling was complete and Sam’s Pizza moved into its present location. Within the next few years they hope to complete Phase II.

Sam’s has been committed to helping the community. Over the past 7 years Sam’s has branched off into a fundraising company helping local non-profit groups earn almost a half-million dollars. Sam’s has also been awarding $1000 scholarships to two Smithville High School graduates each year.

Currently, Sam’s is expanding its catering division. After many years of being a low-key operation, Sam’s has decided to market the catering side of its operation. Village Catering is able to handle everything from graduation parties and business lunches to weddings.

Sam’s will always be committed to providing the best service and the best products at affordable family-friendly prices.