With seven locations open and three in development, Antioch Pizza Shop has endeared itself to countless local residents, redefining standards for not only serving premium pizza, sandwiches, wings and pasta, but building personal connections within the communities each restaurant serves. Now, as stores’ revenues continue to grow each year, the brand has set its sights on growing in Iowa City and other key regions in the Midwest.

“We pride ourselves on providing high-quality food and creating meaningful experiences for every customer. These are some of the key elements which set us apart from other concepts,” says Art Wicklein, co-owner of Antioch Pizza Shop. “We’ve seen how our dedication to the local communities we serve has bred success, and we think that it’s time the people of Iowa City experience what makes Antioch Pizza special.”

Antioch natives and husband and wife duo Art and Karen Wicklein bought Antioch Pizza Shop from the original owner in 2008 as they were looking for a recession proof business. The pizza shop had been a staple in Antioch since its founding in 1977, and the couple has since expanded the brand from one location to seven and now has plans to grow by targeting single and multi-unit deals across Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Tennessee and Wisconsin with the goal of having more than 30 locations open or in development by 2026.

“We wanted to start a concept that was recession proof. Our business has stood the test of time and more,” says Karen Wicklein, co-owner of Antioch Pizza Shop. “Today, our team is looking to grow with like-minded franchise owners who share our passion for community and our mission of phenomenal customer service.”

With an innovative menu, fans of the brand love its famous double-decker pizza loaded with fresh mozzarella cheese and topped with fresh toppings, or the popular Chicago pub style thin crispy crust pizza. In addition to the exceptional pizza, Antioch Pizza Shop also serves homemade Italian beef sandwiches made daily and topped with fresh melted mozzarella cheese and roasted sweet peppers, pasta, salads, wings, ice cream and other desserts.

As the brand expands into Iowa City, Antioch Pizza Shop is seeking qualified single and multi-unit owners looking to invest in an exciting fast casual concept. Ideal Antioch Pizza Shop franchisees will have restaurant operations and management experience, as well as share the brand’s values and mission to positively impact the local communities it serves. Franchisees must have a minimum net worth of $250,000 and meet the minimum liquid assets requirement of $150,000. The total investment per restaurant ranges between $135,000 and $495,500 for a single unit.