1991
80
$150,000
$25,000
$450,000
No
East of Chicago Pizza is one of America’s most recognizable regional pizza franchises, known for its fresh dough, signature pan crust, and commitment to quality. Founded with the vision of delivering pizza made the right way, East of Chicago Pizza has built a loyal following across the Midwest and beyond. Its brand
promise — “Not just pizza, but a pizza experience” — sets it apart from cookie-cutter pizza chains.
With decades of proven success, the East of Chicago Pizza franchise opportunity offers entrepreneurs a trusted, scalable model in the competitive fast-casual dining industry. Whether in small towns or metropolitan hubs, franchisees benefit from strong brand recognition, streamlined operations, and robust support from a seasoned leadership team. Each restaurant embodies the brand’s philosophy: quality ingredients, family-friendly service, and a neighborhood feel that keeps customers coming back.
Investing in an East of Chicago Pizza franchise means partnering with a brand that combines tradition, taste, and profitability. Unlike typical pizza chains, East of Chicago offers a distinctive product lineup featuring pan, thin, and specialty crusts, alongside wings, subs, salads, and an extensive buffet option that drives repeat traffic.
Franchisees benefit from a proven system refined over 30+ years, a strong reputation across multiple states, and a business model designed to thrive in both dine-in and carryout markets. With low start-up costs compared to national brands and flexible store formats, this franchise opportunity appeals to both seasoned restaurateurs and first-time business owners.
Additionally, the company’s focus on community engagement and local marketing ensures franchisees build strong relationships within their territories, creating a loyal customer base and long-term sustainability.
Established Year: 1991
Founders: Joe Huelskamp and Friends
Headquarters: Lima, Ohio, USA
Industry Category: Fast Casual / Pizza & Italian Dining
Current Franchise Units: Over 80 locations across the Midwest
East of Chicago Pizza began its journey in 1991 in Willard, Ohio, when founder Joe Huelskamp envisioned a pizza restaurant that would prioritize quality and customer satisfaction above all else. The brand quickly gained traction thanks to its signature “fresh dough daily” policy and thick, golden pan crust that defined its flavor profile.
By focusing on small-town America and providing a consistent dining experience, East of Chicago Pizza grew organically across Ohio, Indiana, and other neighboring states. Today, it continues to expand under a franchise system that values authenticity, community connection, and operational simplicity.
The company remains privately owned, ensuring franchisees work closely with a leadership team dedicated to sustainable, long-term growth rather than rapid expansion at the cost of quality.
East of Chicago Pizza believes that franchise success starts with strong support. From the moment you sign your franchise agreement, you receive hands-on assistance at every step — from site selection to grand opening and beyond.
Pre-Opening Support:
Guidance in real estate selection and lease negotiation.
Store design and layout assistance to maximize efficiency.
Vendor setup and equipment procurement at negotiated prices.
Comprehensive initial training for franchise owners and staff.
Operational Training:
Franchisees undergo a detailed multi-week training program covering everything from dough preparation and food handling to POS systems and daily management.
Marketing & Grand Opening Support:
Local marketing strategy development and launch campaigns.
Access to national advertising assets, brand materials, and promotional templates.
Digital marketing guidance (social media, online ordering, delivery platforms).
Ongoing Support:
Regular business coaching and performance analysis.
Menu innovation and seasonal promotions.
Regional meetings and franchisee networking opportunities.
Continuous supply chain and technology updates to maintain profitability.
This all-inclusive franchise support ensures that even newcomers to the restaurant industry can operate efficiently and confidently under the East of Chicago brand.
East of Chicago Pizza is ideal for entrepreneurs passionate about community, quality food, and hands-on business ownership. The brand welcomes both experienced restaurateurs and first-time investors who share a desire to grow with a reputable, people-driven organization.
The Ideal Candidate Should Have:
A strong work ethic and leadership mindset.
Basic business management or customer service experience.
Commitment to maintaining brand quality and consistency.
The financial capacity to invest in a food service business.
Willingness to be actively involved in daily operations.
This franchise suits owners who thrive on community engagement and creating memorable dining experiences. Whether operating a single unit or multiple locations, franchisees can enjoy the rewards of building a trusted, family-oriented brand in their area.
| Expense Category | Low Investment (USD) | High Investment (USD) | Description / Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Franchise Fee | $25,000 | $30,000 | One-time fee granting franchise rights and training access. |
| Total Initial Investment | $150,000 | $450,000 | Includes all startup expenses — location setup, inventory, equipment, and working capital. |
| Minimum Liquid Capital Required | $150,000 | — | Minimum cash availability required to qualify as a franchisee. |
| Royalty Fee | 5% of Gross Sales | 5% of Gross Sales | Ongoing fee paid to the franchisor for brand use and support. |
| Marketing / Advertising Fund | 2% of Gross Sales | 2% of Gross Sales | National and local advertising contributions to promote brand awareness. |
| Equipment, Furniture & Fixtures | $80,000 | $200,000 | Includes ovens, prep tables, refrigeration units, seating, and POS systems. |
| Leasehold Improvements & Build-Out | $50,000 | $120,000 | Cost for construction, décor, and branding of the restaurant location. |
| Initial Inventory & Supplies | $5,000 | $10,000 | Starting stock of ingredients, packaging, and uniforms. |
| Working Capital (First 3 Months) | $20,000 | $50,000 | For employee wages, utilities, and operational expenses before breakeven. |
| Training & Pre-Opening Expenses | $5,000 | $15,000 | Travel, accommodation, and other costs during initial training. |
| Technology & POS Systems | $3,000 | $8,000 | Setup of software, digital ordering systems, and operational tech. |
| Insurance & Licensing | $2,000 | $5,000 | Required business permits, insurance, and compliance costs. |
| Expected ROI (Annual) | 18% | 25% | Average annual return for established locations. |
| Break-Even Time | 18 Months | 30 Months | Estimated time to recover initial investment. |
| Revenue Streams | — | — | Dine-in, Carryout, Delivery, Catering, and Buffet Sales. |
