Detroit’s iconic pizza chain Buddy’s Pizza has been acquired by a Detroit-based group of investors who say they have a deep personal connection to the brand and its legacy in the city.
The acquiring group is led by Saber Ammori, Andrew Dickow, and Kevin Denha. The investors emphasized their long-standing ties to Buddy’s Pizza and their commitment to preserving what has made the restaurant a staple of Detroit’s culinary scene for decades.
Buddy’s Pizza was founded in 1946 on Detroit’s east side and is widely credited with pioneering Detroit-style pizza. The new ownership group said they intend to maintain the company’s core identity while focusing on operational excellence and long-term growth.
The investors highlighted priorities including maintaining product quality, ensuring consistency, and delivering strong hospitality experiences. They also noted their goal of protecting the authenticity of the brand while positioning it for future expansion.
The acquisition reflects a broader trend of locally rooted investors stepping in to take ownership of legacy regional brands, particularly those with strong cultural significance.
KEY QUOTES
“For us, this is deeply personal. I still remember walking to Buddy’s as a kid and grabbing a slice. The crust had that unmistakable crunch, the pizza felt premium in a way nothing else did, and it was the highlight of my day. Buddy’s has always been more than a meal. It is a part of Detroit’s fabric, and for a lot of us, it is tied to family, tradition, and memory. We are committed to doubling down on quality and authenticity, and staying true to what the brand stands for.”
Andrew Dickow, Co-Lead Investor
“This is not just another transaction for us. It is a commitment to being good stewards of something that matters to Detroit. We are excited to work alongside the current team to protect what makes Buddy’s special, and to focus on the areas that bring the brand closer to its best. Great hospitality, consistency, authenticity, and a product that lives up to the name.”
Kevin Denha, Co-Lead Investor
“Buddy’s represents something that cannot be easily replicated or manufactured. It is a brand that was built over generations through consistency, pride in craft, and a deep connection to the community it serves. We view our role as protecting that legacy and building toward the future of the business in a way that respects what has come before.”
Saber Ammori, Co-Lead Investor
