Arkansas investment firm plans to refresh small pizzeria chain with community ties
Little Rock, Arkansas-based U.S. Pizza Co. has been acquired by investment firm FoxDen Capital, company sources confirm to Pizza Today. U.S. Pizza Co. operates eight locations in Arkansas and reports five franchise stores under the same name. FoxDen says its interest in U.S. Pizza Co. is a result of the company’s strong community roots and loyal customer base. The Little Rock, Arkansas-based investment firm prioritizes businesses with community connections and potential for growth.
“Over the past five decades, U.S. Pizza has grown into a beloved Arkansas restaurant – earning a loyal following and becoming woven into the fabric of local communities,” representatives from FoxDen Capital tell Pizza Today. “That kind of legacy, driven by heart and hospitality, is exactly the type of story we’re proud to invest in and help grow.”
FoxDen says it hopes to build on the success of U.S. Pizza Co. through “thoughtful growth, operational improvements and strategic brand development.” The company does not have plans to expand into new locations at this time; rather, it hopes to refresh existing restaurants and “elevate the U.S. Pizza experience.” FoxDen Capital says it also plans to invest in training opportunities for staff.
FoxDen tells Pizza Today that pizzeria owners looking to sell should have strong brand identity that fosters loyalty and engagement from the local community. Additionally, potential sellers should be prepared to show a clear path to growth, whether through new markets, programming or menu innovation.
Moving forward, customers can expect innovative menus and seasonal offerings, including selections from Lost Forty Brewing, says Shelby Chambliss, marketing and brand director for FoxDen Capital. Lost Forty Brewing is part of the FoxDen portfolio under Yellow Rocket Concepts. Ken Vaughan will serve as president of U.S. Pizza, and Drew Webber is chief operating officer of the brand.
Judy Waller opened the first U.S. Pizza Co. store in 1972 in a former clock shop in Levy, Arkansas, where she made thin-crust pizzas in a stone oven. The small pizzeria chain’s concept still includes thin-crust pizzas made to order on stone hearth ovens.
