#USA #Riko's Pizza #Long Island #bar pies #Levittown

Riko's Pizza Takes Major Step Forward with Acquisition in Long Island

Riko's Pizza, a rising star in the neighborhood restaurant scene, has taken a significant step towards growth by acquiring its two franchise locations in Merrick and Levittown, New York. This acquisition not only converts these restaurants to corporate-owned operations but also represents a vital milestone in the brand's evolution, especially as it establishes Long Island as a key area for corporate expansion.

Founded in 2011, Riko's Pizza has carved a niche for itself with its signature tavern-style pizzas, affectionately known as "bar pies." The acquisition comes after Riko's first franchisee opened the Levittown location in 2020, which quickly became the brand's first foray outside Connecticut. Following the success of Levittown, the franchisee expanded with a second location in Mineola in 2021, later relocating to a larger space in Merrick in 2023.

With this move, Riko’s not only marks a successful exit for its initial franchisee, who operated both locations for six years but also underscores the viability and strength of its franchise model. The financial terms of the acquisition were not disclosed, but it is clear that the brand is set to benefit significantly from the established presence of these two locations in a competitive market.

Following the acquisition that officially closed on August 31st, both restaurants will continue to operate as usual. Riko’s Pizza has plans to invest further in both the Merrick and Levittown locations, solidifying its intent to expand its footprint on Long Island. This strategic growth shows the company’s commitment to building around successful operations while eyeing additional expansions throughout the region.

Carl Bachmann, President and CEO of Riko's Pizza, expressed enthusiasm for this acquisition. He stated, "This transaction is meaningful for us on many levels. These are two thriving restaurants with strong teams and loyal guest bases... Their success helped validate the scalability of our concept beyond Connecticut, and we’re proud to see that journey culminate in a successful outcome for everyone involved."

Bachmann, who has significant experience in the restaurant industry, emphasized that Long Island offers one of the best restaurant markets in the country. Having lived and operated businesses in the area for over three decades, he is betting on Riko's bar pies and robust restaurant concept to resonate with locals.

He added, "I’ve spent much of my career building and operating restaurant businesses across the Island... This acquisition gives us the opportunity to invest further in those restaurants while strategically expanding our presence across Nassau and Suffolk counties."

Looking ahead, Riko's Pizza is poised for further growth beyond this acquisition. The brand is on an expansion spree along the East Coast, with plans to open a new restaurant at the Shops at SunVet in Holbrook, New York, slated for 2027. This location will enhance Riko's presence on Long Island as the company evaluates more opportunities for disciplined growth throughout Nassau and Suffolk counties.

Riko's Pizza is celebrated not just for its innovative pizzas but also for its inviting neighborhood atmosphere, which features an extensive selection of craft beers, wines, and specialty cocktails. With locations across four states, including Connecticut, Florida, New York, and North Carolina, the brand is committed to delivering an exceptional dining experience.

For more details about Riko's Pizza and its growth strategies—including franchising opportunities—visit www.RikosFranchise.com.

In conclusion, Riko's Pizza's acquisition of the Merrick and Levittown restaurants symbolizes not just a strategic business move but a reaffirmation of the brand's potential to thrive in new markets. With a dedicated leadership team and a commitment to quality, the future looks bright for Riko's Pizza as it continues to redefine the pizza dining experience in America.