Specialty running store franchise DLZIMCO. Inc, owner-operators of Fleet Feet Chicago, has acquired Fleet Feet Rockford. The move to acquire the Rockford location came with a desire to leverage Fleet Feet Chicago’s community and vendor partnerships with the established and active Fleet Feet Rockford community, expanding the Fleet Feet brand and mission across northern Illinois.
“We are excited to transition ownership of Fleet Feet Rockford into the Fleet Feet Chicago family,” said former owner Melissa Pratt. “We have seen the success and community Dave and Lisa [Zimmer] built in the Chicago stores and are excited to have the opportunity to bring their industry knowledge and passion and build upon what we’ve already established here in Rockford.”
The Zimmers, celebrating their 25th anniversary as Fleet Feet franchisees, opened their first location in Chicago’s Old Town neighborhood, operating seven locations across Chicago, Deerfield and Elmhurst. Adding Fleet Feet Rockford brings the franchise to eight locations across Illinois
The acquisition of Fleet Feet Rockford fits in Fleet Feet Chicago’s vision to inspire and support runners throughout Chicagoland and Northern Illinois’ communities. Apart from the financial value that Fleet Feet Rockford will bring to the Chicago franchise, Fleet Feet Chicago will bring additional operational resources, and expanded product offerings and will continue to build strong strategic partnerships between businesses and the greater running community.
