America's Incredible Pizza Company

History

Rick and Cheryl Barsness, who had owned 11 Mr. Gatti's Pizza franchises since 1975, sold those franchises in 2002 to fund their own venture, initially called Springfield's Incredible Pizza Company. The concept stemmed from Rick Barsness's childhood: as a high school hockey player, his father never attended his state championship games, inspiring a dream of a place where families could eat and have fun together.

In 2003, Barsness settled a lawsuit with Mr. Gatti's by paying $1 million and agreeing to give 1% of net sales for ten years, resolving claims of franchise contract violations and trade secret theft. AIPC began franchising in 2003 with corporate headquarters in Tulsa, Oklahoma, moving to Springfield, Missouri in 2009. Each restaurant averages 250 employees and costs $5–9 million to open.

Locations and format

America's Incredible Pizza Company has a 1950s-themed atmosphere with music and decor. Its buffet serves 30 pizza varieties and an 80-item salad bar, plus pasta and dessert. Seating zones include the Starlite Drive In, Family Room, Diner, and Gym.

NASCAR sponsorship

America's Incredible Pizza Company sponsored the number 11 CJM Racing car in the NASCAR Nationwide Series in 2008 and 2009. In 2008, the team finished 17th in the season standings.

In July 2008, CJM Racing and AIPC partnered with Joe Gibbs Racing, and driver Scott Lagasse Jr. finished 13th in the No. 11 car at Charlotte Motor Speedway in October 2008. The sponsorship ended in December 2009 when CJM Racing suspended operations. Keller's best finish was third at Gateway Motorsports Park in 2008.

Did You Know?

• In fall 2007, the Incredible Pizza Company Foundation was founded to donate to missionaries and orphanages.
• On February 20, 2008, the IPC Foundation gave $24,000 to Convoy of Hope.
• In 2008, AIPC was named a Top Family Entertainment Center of the World by the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions.