New pizza company in Dublin partners with homelessness group

Neat Pizza, founded by Freshly Chopped’s Brian Lee, opens in Smithfield and Fairview

Brian Lee: ‘It’s more important than ever that new businesses have a strong sense of civic duty built into their DNA right from the start’
Brian Lee: ‘It’s more important than ever that new businesses have a strong sense of civic duty built into their DNA right from the start’

A new pizza company has been set up in Dublin, with the first two outlets set to be unveiled in Smithfield and Fairview on Friday.

Neat Pizza has been founded by Brian Lee, who is also the chief executive of healthy fast-food retailer Freshly Chopped.

The new venture will offer “authentic Neapolitan stonebaked pizzas of the highest quality, using only the freshest ingredients and traditional techniques”, the group said.

“We’re delighted to be officially launching Neat in Smithfield on Friday,” said Mr Lee. “Pizza is often seen as a treat for many, but that doesn’t mean it shouldn’t be created from fresh, quality ingredients.

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“The team have been tremendous in their commitment to creating a fun inspiring space, sourcing authentic Italian ingredients, and finding the right people to create the perfect Neapolitan pizzas.”

Neat will officially partner with Feed Our Homeless. Through the use of digital counters in each location, customers can donate a meal for charity in store and also online. Neat will double all donations to Feed Our Homeless.

Furthermore, a bespoke pizza academy training programme will see Feed Our Homeless and Neat partner to provide participants with certifications in authentic pizza baking through training courses valued at €5,000.

Donations

“We have had digital counters installed at our Neat locations, which will record the number of pizzas our generous customers have donated to those who need it,” said Mr Lee.

“Our commitment is to double every donation, so we can play our part in supporting the growing numbers of people affected by homelessness in Ireland in any way we can.

“It’s more important than ever that new businesses have a strong sense of civic duty built into their DNA right from the start, giving back to their local communities or further afield where possible.

“That being the case, we’re also very excited about our Neat pizza academy which will give people an opportunity to learn a new trade and become certified pizza chefs, restoring their confidence, and providing them with references to get back into the workplace.”

Feed Our Homeless co-founder Natasha Morgan said: “Our aim is to support those most marginalised in society, those who have lost their voice through homelessness and to assist them through their journey back into independent living.

“Giving support and encouragement and having belief in others gives hope and the ability to change, and this partnership is a good example of that.

“Through encouragement and motivation is how people reach their full potential and opportunities like this can set so many lives in positive, new directions.”

Colin Gleeson

Colin Gleeson

Colin Gleeson is an Irish Times reporter