THE EAST OF CHICAGO PIZZA STORY
In 1991, East of Chicago Pizza was founded on our signature fresh pan pizza, devotion to quality, and the belief customers deserve the best tasting pizza with every bite. We believe our commitment to these three principles is the driving force behind our growth and success.
East of Chicago Pizza is a proven franchise system, which has thrived for over twenty years in the ultra-competitive pizza industry. We have more than 80 locations in six states and in 2013, East of Chicago continued its impressive growth by surpassing 48 consecutive months of same-store-sales increases, the addition of 12 new locations, all while breaking the $30 million mark in franchise-wide sales.
In 2008, Tony Collins, a multi-unit operator, purchased the franchise. Tony's vision for the East of Chicago brand centered on the drive and success of existing operators. "It started with engagement of the owners across the board," Collins said. "We looked at each operating unit and completed over 200 store visits in order to establish our vision and company goals for the next five years. Plus, we invested heavily in training and operational systems while securing national distribution channels." Today, East of Chicago Pizza is recognized throughout the Midwest for our specialty pizzas, delicious subs, and signature wings.
In the next five years, the company plans on reaching a total of 150 units and growing the corporate structure to provide continued support to the franchisee in all aspects of development, training and operations. The drive and success of existing franchisees are major aspects of East of Chicago's future growth plans. "You have to see beyond initial investment and want to grow larger with us," said Collins, noting the brand emphasizes there is a huge opportunity for aggressive expansion in key territories. "We look for potential franchisees who have great passion, a background in restaurant management, or, ideally, a multi-unit operator."
WHO MAKES A GOOD EAST OF CHICAGO PIZZA FRANCHISEE?
Opening an East of Chicago Pizza franchise does not require past experience. If you have experience, it is an advantage since you already understand the time commitment and what it takes to be successful. If you don't have experience, you are in a great situation since you don't have any pre-existing ideas about what you should be doing. Our experienced team of support personnel will help you make the most of your time and answer any questions. Plus, you can take advantage of the experience and wisdom of our franchisees, area developers, and our vendors.
Our ideal candidate has a background in restaurant management, preferably franchise restaurants; strong management skills; the ability to consistently motivate themselves and those around them; and the willingness to devote time and energy to the business.
Successful franchise operators are unanimous in their belief that working with people, building our Brand value and a commitment to our founding core principles are the best attributes for any potential franchise owner.
If you are interested in finding out more about this exciting opportunity, please fill out the short form below. We look forward to speaking with you!
Leverage Our Industry Expertise & Complete Business System
From site selection through grand opening, East of Chicago’s development and training staff will get you up and running as quickly as possible. We provide you with:
- Thorough training- You and your designated operator or manager will receive complete training. The month-long training program covers all aspects of preparing, opening and operating the restaurant.
- Marketing assistance - You’ll have access to our proven tools and strategies for attracting and retaining customers. Our staff will help you develop your marketing plans and budgets for your grand opening as well as your ongoing marketing efforts throughout the year.
- Choice of store designs - Both dine-in with buffet units and delivery and carryout (DELCO) units are available within strip malls or as stand-alone units.
- Real estate assistance - The East of Chicago staff will help you to find the right location and negotiate the best possible deal on your site.
- Construction assistance - We will assist you in the design and layout of the restaurant. We will also guide you in the selection of the right contractors to do perform build out, as well as making sure you get the exact mix of furniture and equipment you need to maximize the efficiency of your restaurant.
- Purchasing power - You will be able to take advantage of the buying power of the entire system. East of Chicago has aggressively negotiated with vendors to provide you with savings on everything you need to operate your restaurant. The pricing our franchisees receive are at significantly lower levels than you could achieve as an independent operator. This applies not only to initial furniture and equipment purchases, but also to the supplies, inventory, uniforms and everything else you'll need on an ongoing basis.
- Protected territory - A protected market area is established for each location.
- Ongoing support - We will continue to provide ongoing support services to you by phone, e-mail, and periodic onsite visits to your location. We will also provide you with access to our online support website. We also regularly update our operations manual with new information.
Franchise ownership opportunities are available for single units or multi-units, and area development and master franchise opportunities also exist.
"East of Chicago's business model makes it easy to succeed
and make a healthy living as long as you are willing to work hard
at it. The best part of owning an East of Chicago franchise is
knowing you have tremendous support, a strong brand, and the
best pizza in the business. Becoming part of the East of Chicago
family was easily the best business decision I ever made for
myself and for my family." - Jeff Souder, Owner (14 years) Warren, IN
"What I really enjoy about East of Chicago are their core values:
a family atmosphere, community involvement and a commitment
to excellence. Some of the best points of owning an East of
Chicago are the marketing support and strength of a large brand
to control costs. We have the best pizza because we make the
dough fresh daily and I really believe that is our winning ticket.
You can't beat fresh dough. East of Chicago is PIZZA DONE
RIGHT!" - Larry Allen, Owner (15 years), Clyde & Bellevue, OH
