Aggressive growth plans and management updates are part of Big Game Brands' acquisition of this casual dining chain.

Big Game Brands, formerly Raving Brands, purchased The Original Italian Pie, a full-service Italian restaurant franchise. The company also announced aggressive growth plans and named Pat Linch as vice president of operations and brand leader for the concept.

Linch previously worked with the brand and will remain based in New Orleans to lead franchise support and training efforts.

Big Game Brands intends to expand the concept across the U.S., focusing its efforts in the Southeast. The company plans to open a corporate location in Charlotte, N.C. and a new franchised location in New Orleans. Big Game Brands plans to grow The Original Italian Pie to 25 locations from 13 by the end of 2012, according to a company release.