Central Florida is about to experience a taste of Philadelphia like never before. Derek Lewis, a Black entrepreneur and former president of PepsiCo Beverages NA, is making history as the largest franchisee of Philly Pretzel Factory in the Southern United States. Through this partnership, Lewis will bring the beloved Philly-style pretzels to the Orlando area, building on his success with Big Dave’s Cheesesteaks franchises.
“Soft pretzels are woven into Philadelphia’s cultural fabric, and I’ve craved their distinctive taste since childhood,” said Lewis. “This partnership allows me to bring another authentic Philadelphia experience to Florida, complementing our successful Big Dave’s Cheesesteaks operations.”
A Vision for Sharing Philly’s Food Culture
Derek Lewis is no stranger to the food industry. As the owner of multiple Big Dave’s Cheesesteaks locations in Central Florida, he has already made a name for himself by introducing Philly’s iconic cheesesteaks to the region. Now, he’s expanding his vision by partnering with Philly Pretzel Factory to create a complete Philadelphia food experience.
Lewis’s passion for sharing Philadelphia’s food culture stems from his personal connection to the city. “We’re creating a complete Philadelphia food experience that delivers world-class taste and quality to our guests,” he added. His expertise in the food service industry and his commitment to operational excellence make him the ideal partner for this expansion.
What Makes Philly Pretzel Factory Stand Out?
Philly Pretzel Factory, founded in 1998 by college buddies Dan DiZio and Len Lehman, is known for its iconic Philly-style pretzels. Unlike traditional pretzels, Philly-style pretzels have a unique figure-8 shape and a dense, chewy texture that’s slightly sweet yet salty.
The menu features a variety of pretzel options, including classic pretzels, pretzel twists, mini pretzels, rivets, pretzel dogs, and even cheesesteak pretzels. With over 170 locations nationwide, Philly Pretzel Factory has become a household name. Lewis’s franchise will be the largest in the Southern region, further solidifying the brand’s presence in the U.S.
A Strategic Partnership for Growth
Dan DiZio, CEO and Co-Founder of Philly Pretzel Factory, expressed confidence in Lewis’s ability to lead the brand’s expansion. “Lewis’s track record of operational excellence and deep understanding of the food service industry makes him the ideal partner to expand our presence in Central Florida,” said DiZio.
The first traditional locations under this partnership are set to open in late 2025, with non-traditional locations potentially opening sooner. Each store will feature Philly Pretzel Factory’s classic menu items, including fresh-baked pretzels and innovative pretzel products.
Bringing Brotherly Love to Central Florida
Derek Lewis’s journey is about more than just business—it’s about sharing the spirit of Philadelphia with new communities. By combining his expertise with Philly Pretzel Factory’s iconic flavors, Lewis is creating a unique dining experience that celebrates Philly’s rich food culture.
As the largest Black franchisee of Philly Pretzel Factory, Lewis is not only making history but also paving the way for other entrepreneurs. His story is a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and a love for great food.
Leave a Reply