Three Chicago legends unite as Al’s Beef and Nancy’s Pizza announced that they recruited and signed Chicago sports legend Mike Ditka, famed coach, football player, and television commentator, to join the companies’ team. Ditka is the first official spokesperson for the two iconic restaurant brands, as they ramp up for franchise expansion into new markets and launch fresh new store designs across the country.

“Al’s Beef and Nancy’s Pizza are Chicago legends in a city so close to my heart after being here for many years, and I couldn’t be more excited to support their growth and expansion,” says Mike Ditka. “There is nothing quite like Al’s original authentic dipped Italian Beef sandwich or the original stuffed pizza filled with cheese and every topping imaginable from Nancy’s. Are you hungry yet?”

Mike Ditka will be involved as a spokesperson for Chicago Franchise Systems Inc, the parent company of Al’s Beef and Nancy’s Pizza. The coach will be incorporated into many efforts for both brands, including new branding at the store level, advertising, public relations, and marketing efforts. Chicago Franchise Systems is scouting future locations across the country to open Al’s Beef and Nancy’s Pizza restaurants with the coach and his team.

“We are thrilled to bring Mike Ditka into the Al’s Beef and Nancy’s Pizza family as he truly embodies Chicago where our brands were born,” says Dave Howey, president of Chicago Franchise Systems Inc. “This partnership marks the beginning of some very exciting changes and initiatives that we’ll be rolling out over the coming months to support the continued growth of Al’s Beef and Nancy’s Pizza.”