Specialty running store franchise DLZIMCO.Inc, owner-operators of Fleet Feet Chicago, has acquired Fleet Feet Rockford, expanding the Fleet Feet brand across northern Illinois.

“We are excited to transition ownership of Fleet Feet Rockford into the Fleet Feet Chicago family,” said Feet Fleet Rockford’s former owner Melissa Pratt. “We have seen the success and community Dave and Lisa 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.”

Fleet Feet Chicago owners Dave and Lisa Zimmer, celebrating their 25th anniversary as Fleet Feet franchisees, opened their first store in Chicago’s Old Town neighborhood, operating seven locations across Chicago, Deerfield and Elmhurst. Adding Fleet Feet Rockford brings the franchise in Illinois.

On a national level, Fleet Feet, founded in 1976, is the largest franchisor of locally owned and operated running stores with more than 250 locations in 37 states and corporate headquarters in Carrboro, NC.