Papa Bello Enterprises announced today that the company has been approved for selling franchises in the state of Illinois. The state currently has nine stores available for construction within Wal-Mart as well as many stand-alone, in-line, and non-traditional locations.

Over the past three months, Papa Bello has opened three stores in Alabama, Colorado, and South Carolina, bringing the total number of operating franchises to 17, with four more stores under construction for this year. Papa Bello is currently seeking an area representative to develop the Illinois area and help expand the company’s footprint.

Chase Canfield, 31, CEO of Papa Bello Enterprises Inc states, “We are adrenalized to finally receive the approval to operate in Illinois. This part of the country contains a large population historically associated with pizza consumption. We believe that given the sizable number of Wal-Mart locations, coupled with the growing stand-alone market, we will be able to successfully develop this area and continue to grow the company.”