Brand Champions: Peggy and Joe Anicka

Following a layoff, Peggy and Joe Anicka were looking for their next move. They both had a long history of restaurant experience and began surfing the web for potential franchising opportunities. They were sold on the idea of leading the charge of their own destiny and called Dickey’s Barbecue to learn more.

“We loved the idea of barbecue, kids eat free Sundays and the community outreach component,” said Peggy. “My husband and I have been pleased with the support we’ve gotten from our corporate team.”

The Anickas were the second location to open in Michigan at the end of 2012. Today there are seven locations in the state with an eighth opening later this summer. Their Commerce Township store is in the middle of a neighborhood where summer caterings and dinner sales are a hit.

“At first we were concerned with the exponential growth and whether the corporate team could keep up,” said Peggy. “We haven’t been disappointed and are considering opening a second location.”

Prior to opening, Peggy volunteered in a domestic violence shelter and she’s still a CASA advocate, a nationwide organization for abused and neglected children. Now the Anickas use their barbecue business to give back. They regularly hold fundraisers that give back 15 percent of their sales.

“We donate our unsold meat every night to a local food bank and we hold fundraisers every month to support our local schools as well as other community groups,” said Peggy.