Achatz pies to be sold nationwide via franchises

DETROIT (AP) - A Michigan-based dessert company has announced its franchise rights now belong to a Florida firm. The firm, which bought the franchise rights to Achatz Handmade Pie Co., plans to open 150 locations across the country within the next five years. The franchise operation, called Handmade Pie Co., will be based out of Tampa. Co-founder Wendy Achatz said in a statement that the brand is ready to franchise and share its product with more customers throughout Michigan and the Midwest. The decision to sell the company's franchise rights came after years of fielding requests from customers, friends and family. "My husband and I realized we don't have experience in the franchises business and we didn't want to mess it up if we did it ourselves," Achatz said. "We've met with a lot of people over the years and not felt comfortable until we met" the team led by Handmade Pie Chief Operating Officer Kevin Sirois. The franchise company has already opened three locations in Michigan malls to cater to customers during the holiday season. "The mall units have exceeded our expectations," Sirois said in a statement. "These additional retail locations provide new customers with access to Wendy and Dave's amazing, all natural handmade pies for the holidays. Our first brick and mortar store will open by spring of 2015 in Novi." Achatz Handmade Pie Co. was founded in Armada 21 years ago. The company currently makes its natural desserts in Chesterfield Township. Products are sold at seven retail locations in southwest Michigan and about 100 grocery stores, The Detroit Free Press. The award-winning Achatz pies have been featured on several TV shows, including "The Rachael Ray Show" and "The Today Show," and in several magazines. Published: Thu, Nov 13, 2014