From Little Caesars to Major Leagues: The Ilitch Family's Story of Entrepreneurial Spirit

Total Michigan

Denise Illich is a prominent figure in Detroit's business and philanthropic community for over 40 years. Sponsored by the Stevens Center for Family Business, the show delves into Denise's transition from aspiring to pave her own path in the legal field to taking up significant roles in her family's enterprises, including Illich Holdings - the parent company of Little Caesars Enterprise, the Detroit Redwings, and the Detroit Tigers, among others.

The discussion highlights the Illich family's dedication to Detroit's revitalization, their ventures into sports team ownership, and the development of landmark projects like the Comerica Park and Ford Field.

Denise reflects on her father’s influence, his questions that shaped her worldview, and the innovative marketing strategies that propelled Little Caesars into a global brand. The conversation also touches on her commitment to education and philanthropy, encapsulating a journey from modest beginnings to leading an expansive business empire while staying devoted to community upliftment.

Links:

Stevens Center for Family Business: http://svsu.edu/scfb

The Denise Ilitch Show: https://deniseilitchshow.libsyn.com/

Denise's Show on Apple: Click here.

Denise's Show on Spotify: Click here

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Show Notes:

00:00 Welcome to Total Michigan: Celebrating Family Business and Philanthropy

00:34 Introducing Denise Illich: A Legacy of Business and Giving Back

02:32 From Immigrant Roots to Pizza Empire: The Illich Family Story

09:59 Denise's Personal Journey: Education, Law, and Returning to the Family Business

11:48 The Evolution of Little Caesars: Franchising and National Expansion

12:47 Denise's Unexpected Path into Marketing and Its Impact

15:12 The Ilitch Family's Empire: From Pizza to Detroit's Revival

17:25 Investing in Detroit: The Story Behind the Fox Theater and Sports Teams

20:24 Building a Legacy: The Detroit Red Wings and Tigers

24:27 Expanding the Empire: Comerica Park and Ford Field

26:23 Leadership Transition and Continuing the Legacy

27:44 Giving Back: Education and Community Engagement

29:11 Denise's Favorite Detroit Moment