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Rapid Fire Pizza gets New Owners

Pie Guys Restaurants has acquired Rapid Fired Pizza, a 30-unit fast-casual restaurant chain with locations spanning 6 states. Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed.

Mike Kern, a Rapid Fired Pizza owner/operator will serve as CEO and president of the chain, with Chip Hurst serving as the company’s chief development officer. Kern’s restaurant industry career includes leadership positions with Long John Silver's and KFC. Hurst’s background includes experience in commercial real estate development in a variety of industries, including chain restaurants.

After divesting ownership of the brand, Rapid Fired Pizza founder Ray Wiley will continue as a licensee, operating locations in Ohio.

Headquartered in Kettering, Ohio, Rapid Fired Pizza’s growth plans include franchise development throughout the chain’s existing footprint of the Midwest, Southeast, and Texas. The chain plans to open five locations within the next 12 months. Rapid Fire will continue to grow via the non-traditional market by adding a presence in grocery stores, stadiums, and student centers. The chain already has a relationship with a grocer in Ohio.