(WXYZ) — It's been more than a year since Buddy's Pizza, the home of the Detroit-style pizza, announced it was expanding to the "midwest and beyond," and a new report says the chain's expansion to Chicago is a matter of when, not if.
According to Eater Chicago, the popularity of Detroit-style pizza continues to grow, and Buddy's COO Wes Pikula respects how he respects the family behind Chicago deep dish Lou Malnati's grew the business.
In 2018, Buddy's said it received an investment from CapitalSpring which would bring Detroit-style pizza to the "Midwest and beyond."
“Obviously right now a lot of things are being looked at,” Pikula told Eater Chicago. “Chicago, like Grand Rapids, has a lot of metro Detroiters transplanted whether it’s by work or choice. It’s a great town to live in, of course. It’s always something on our radar.”
The first location outside of metro Detroit was announced last month, and it will open in Grand Rapids this spring.
"This partnership is a significant opportunity for us to introduce Buddy's iconic pizza, rich culture and community roots to new customers in Detroit and beyond," Buddy's CEO Robert Jacobs said in a release. "We are extremely excited for this new chapter and to have found a partner that can not only maintain our commitment to quality food and an exceptional guest experience, but also offer substantial restaurant expertise."
"We are thrilled to support the Buddy's team and look forward to growing the brand over the coming years," CapitalSpring Managing Director Erik Herrmann said in the release. "It's rare to find a restaurant concept with such signature food, deep-rooted brand equity, and passionate customers, and we are honored to be their partner in accelerating the business."
