,type=downsize)
Pilar Guzmán, a native of Veracruz, Mexico, has transformed a single-store venture into a thriving chain of Half Moon Empanadas, gracing numerous U.S. airports and delighting travelers with her delectable empanadas. This remarkable journey began in 2008 in Miami's South Beach and has since expanded to over 20 locations, including prominent airports in cities like Miami, Denver, Fort Lauderdale, Nashville, Chicago, Phoenix, Palm Springs, and Minneapolis. Additionally, her empanadas have found a home in various universities and hospitals across Florida, making Half Moon Empanadas a beloved name in convenience dining.
The secret to Guzmán's success lies in her meticulous attention to detail throughout the entire empanada-making process, starting with the dough. "The weight of our empanada is four ounces, when most others have half that. You cut one of most empanadas and there is air. You cut one of our empanadas and there is product," she proudly explains to NBC. This commitment to quality ensures that every bite is filled with a robust and satisfying filling, setting Half Moon Empanadas apart from the competition.
"Everything is thanks to the search for how to survive, then I began to understand the business."
Since its inception, Half Moon Empanadas has experienced tremendous growth, with 2023 marking a significant milestone. In that year alone, the company sold an impressive three million empanadas. Her efforts have not gone unnoticed; she was recently featured in Inc. magazine's 2024 Female Founders 250 list and recognized as one of the most intriguing entrepreneurs.
"Half Moon is going to be a brand that will open up the market, positioning the empanada as another staple of the American diet, like tacos or hamburgers."
Guzmán's business acumen is backed by a solid educational foundation, a background in business administration, and a master's degree in finance from Georgetown University. Her leadership extends beyond the products she offers, as she has cultivated a diverse and empowering work environment. "We are 75% women and we are 95% Latino. I think there are starting to be more people who only speak English, given that we have opened in other parts of the country, but the majority still speak in Spanish," she says, highlighting the cultural richness within her company.
One of Guzmán's most memorable experiences came in 2021 when she participated in a video call with President Joe Biden. Reflecting on the surreal moment, she recalls, "There were like 100 screens, and, suddenly, he appeared and said: 'Hello, Pilar.' And he is the president of the United States. It was very surreal." This interaction was part of the campaign announcing the administration's economic rescue plan during the COVID-19 pandemic, which included vital aid for small businesses.
Beyond expanding her business, Guzmán is passionate about providing opportunities for her employees, especially women. An inspiring example is Sara León, who progressed from being the head of catering to becoming the company's vice president within six years. Guzmán's commitment to nurturing talent and fostering growth within her team reflects her broader vision of empowerment and community support.
Pilar Guzmán's journey from a single empanada store to a renowned chain in airports across the country shows her entrepreneurial spirit and dedication. Her story is an inspiring example of how passion, attention to detail, and a commitment to quality can lead to remarkable success.