If you’re considering opening a pizza franchise, the Midwest offers some of the best untapped markets in the country. With its strong sense of community, growing suburban towns, and appetite for comfort food, the region is ripe for expansion, and Antioch Pizza Shop is perfectly positioned to lead the way.
Founded on small-town values and big flavor, Antioch Pizza Shop is actively seeking motivated franchise owners ready to bring our beloved pizza, pasta, and sandwiches to new communities across the Midwest. Whether you’re a first-time business owner or an experienced franchisee looking to grow your portfolio, the Midwest provides the ideal landscape for success.
Here’s a detailed look at the best places to open a pizza franchise in the Midwest—and why partnering with Antioch Pizza Shop is a winning investment.
Why the Midwest Is Perfect for Pizza Franchise Growth
The Midwest is more than just friendly faces and scenic landscapes—it’s a hotbed of opportunity for food franchises. Here’s why:
- Strong Community Support: Midwest towns are known for supporting local businesses, especially those that become community gathering places.
- Affordable Real Estate: Compared to coastal markets, the cost to lease or buy retail space in the Midwest is significantly lower. reducing startup costs and boosting ROI.
- Stable Economies: Many Midwestern states offer stable job markets and affordable living, which keeps disposable income, and dining out, steady.
- Craving for Comfort Food: From college towns to suburbs, Midwesterners love hearty, homemade-style meals, especially pizza, making it a top dining choice year-round.
Top Midwest Markets Available with Antioch Pizza Shop
Antioch Pizza Shop currently has prime markets available across the Midwest, offering exclusive territories for qualified franchisees. Here are some of the best places to open a pizza franchise with us right now:
1. Indiana
With its mix of suburban neighborhoods, college towns, and revitalizing downtowns, Indiana is a standout location for pizza franchise growth. Cities like Fort Wayne, Evansville, and Bloomington are seeing population growth and investment in local dining scenes.
Why Indiana?
- Affordable startup costs
- High demand for family dining and takeout
- Strong college town foot traffic
2. Michigan
From Grand Rapids to Ann Arbor, Michigan combines growing populations with a love of comfort food. The state’s strong sports culture, frequent community events, and local pride create the perfect backdrop for a hometown pizza favorite like Antioch.
Why Michigan?
- Expanding metro areas
- Ideal for dine-in and carryout models
- Great fit for Antioch’s community-driven brand
3. Wisconsin
Wisconsin’s cities and small towns are known for their loyalty to local businesses and family-friendly dining options. Places like Green Bay, Eau Claire, and Appleton are ready for a franchise with heart, tradition, and delicious pizza.
Why Wisconsin?
- Strong brand alignment with Midwestern values
- Demand for dine-in and delivery
- Limited competition in select towns
4. Missouri
Whether you’re targeting the suburbs of St. Louis, Kansas City, or college towns like Columbia, Missouri offers a strategic mix of affordability, steady growth, and loyal communities that love to eat local.
Why Missouri?
- Central location with great distribution access
- Affordable startup costs
- College and family demographics
5. Illinois (Outside of Chicago Metro)
While Chicago itself may be saturated, the surrounding suburban and rural areas of Illinois are filled with opportunity. As the home state of Antioch Pizza Shop, we know these communities well—and we’re looking for partners who want to bring the brand to towns that crave something better than the chains.
Why Illinois?
- Established brand recognition
- Local loyalty and repeat business
- Proven market performance
What Makes Antioch Pizza Shop the Right Franchise Partner?
Antioch Pizza Shop isn’t just another pizza brand. We’re a community staple, known for:
- Homemade recipes and quality ingredients
- Flexible franchise models: Full-service, takeout/delivery only, Express, and Food Truck options
- Affordable startup investment
- Ongoing training and operational support
- Marketing guidance and local advertising tools
Whether you’re launching in a small town or a suburban shopping center, our proven system and beloved menu will set you up for success.
Flexible Franchise Models to Fit Any Midwest Market
Not all towns are the same—and that’s why Antioch Pizza Shop offers four different franchise models to suit your community:
- Full-Service Restaurant – Perfect for suburban or family-friendly neighborhoods with space for dine-in.
- Takeout & Delivery Only – Ideal for smaller towns or areas with high delivery demand.
- Express Restaurant – A compact model for high-traffic areas like strip malls.
- Pizza Food Truck – Mobile flexibility for local events, festivals, and catering.
Each model comes with full training, marketing support, and a roadmap to success tailored to your goals.
Start Your Franchise Journey in the Midwest Today
The best time to open a pizza franchise in the Midwest is now—and Antioch Pizza Shop is here to help you every step of the way. With available territories across Indiana, Michigan, Wisconsin, Missouri, and Illinois, your dream of owning a successful, community-loved pizza restaurant is within reach.
We’re excited to hear from you!
To start a conversation, fill out our simple online application. A member of our franchising team will be in touch shortly with more information about your opportunity as an Antioch Pizza franchise owner.