KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WVLT) -- A Knoxville favorite is spreading its wings and planning to go national! Hard Knox Pizza announced it will soon start franchising its version of 'Fast-Casual authentic Gourmet Pizza.'

Local entrepreneurs Dean and Jill Bastain are teaming up with Tulsa-based Beautiful Brands (BBI) to begin franchising.

“I guess you could call us pizza obsessed,” says owner/founder, Chef Dean Bastian.

“Everything we do at Hard Knox Pizzeria—from our Earthstone true wood fired oven and one of a kind recipes to our fresh ingredients and incredible service—is done for the purpose of offering our customers the best pizza experience anywhere."

The first franchised pizzeria is slated to open in spring of next year. Hard Knox currently has one location in Knoxville.

“Absolutely nothing can match the taste of Hard Knox Pizzeria,” said David Rutkauskas, BBI Founder and CEO. “There’s no question Hard Knox would be a tremendous franchise here in the Knoxville region and nationwide. We’re talking completely fresh and authentic pizza that I believe will revolutionize the niche gourmet artisan-style pizza market.”