Dickey's Barbecue Pit Heads to Illinois

WHEATON, Ill., April 29, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Business partners, Dan Sommerfeld and Scott Steffens, are set to open the first Dickey's Barbecue Pit in Illinois this May, effectively bringing Texas-style Barbecue to Wheaton.  

"Dickey's has great food: the jalapeno beans, the brisket, the peach cobbler. I know the people of Wheaton will love the home-style cooking," Sommerfeld said, who will be more active in operations of the franchise.

This is the first Dickey's franchise opportunity for the native Chicagoan, who said the franchise's quality barbecue is a great fit to the Wheaton community, where he now lives.

"We are so thrilled Dickey's is moving into Illinois. The Dickey's presence continues to grow across the country at a steady pace and we are thrilled with this latest development," President of Dickey's Barbecue Restaurants, Inc. Roland Dickey, Jr. said.

Texas-based Dickey's Barbecue Pit opened in 1941 and began franchising in 1994. Dickey's Barbecue Pit is well-known for their hot pit-smoked signature meats, complimentary ice cream and the big yellow cups.

A commercial real estate developer in the midst of a standstill economy, Owner/Operator Sommerfeld decided to pursue something different saying, "Dickey's is it."

Since early 2011, Dickey's Barbecue Pit has opened 12 stores, with 60 set to open before the end of 2011.

Many owner/operators are men and women new to the restaurant business, but Dickey's business model provides the framework for success.

"Dickey's Barbecue Pit allows the opportunity for everyone to enjoy the flavor of Texas style barbecue without busting the budget. I am excited to get started with our new location," the new Owner/Operator said.

The preparation prior to opening a Dickey's franchise is extensive, ensuring that owners and operators are thoroughly prepared to hit the ground running.

"We have so many new owner/operators investing with us and in the midst of this economy, we are glad people trust us for success. Their victory is our victory and we plan on continuing to move forward," Dickey said.

With unemployment at a steadily high rate, Dickey's and their entrepreneurial partners are expanding while other businesses are shutting down.

"Our progress is surprising to a lot of folks, but it makes sense to us. People want to get out of the rat race," Dickey said. "In turn, these new stores are employing hundreds of people who otherwise would be on unemployment."

The original Dallas location is still open for business and Dickey's Barbecue Pit is still owned and operated by the Dickey Family.

There are 147 locations in 33 states.

Even today, Dickey's still slow smokes all of their signature meats overnight in every restaurant.  

Committed to exceptional quality at a great price, Dickey's Barbecue is a great match for the Wheaton area, according to Sommerfeld.

More information on Dickey's Barbecue Pit is available at www.dickeys.com. Franchising information is available at 866-340-6188.

Media Contact:
Amy Vercher
972-248-9899
[email protected]

SOURCE Dickey's Barbecue Pit