7 Shocking Secrets Behind Great Harvest Bread Co. Evanston’s Success (And The Rare Opportunity To Own It)
The Great Harvest Bread Co. in Evanston, Illinois, is currently at the center of a major business transition, making the neighborhood bakery a hot topic for local entrepreneurs and loyal customers alike. As of December 2025, the beloved Central Street location is operating as usual, continuing its tradition of milling whole wheat daily and serving freshly baked goods, but the company has announced a rare and significant franchise opportunity for a new local owner to take the reins of this established, 16-year-old community staple. This news highlights the unique "Freedom Franchise" model that has allowed the Evanston bakery to thrive as a true neighborhood entity.
This deep dive explores the history, unique business model, and must-try menu items that have cemented Great Harvest Evanston’s status as a North Shore institution. From the signature Honey Whole Wheat bread to the community-focused ownership, we uncover the secrets to its enduring success and what the future holds for this vital part of the Evanston food scene.
The Great Harvest Evanston Business Profile & Ownership History
The Great Harvest Bread Co. location in Evanston is more than just a bakery; it is a long-standing fixture of the Central Street business district. Its history is deeply tied to its dedicated local operators, who have cultivated a unique, community-centric atmosphere within a national franchise framework.
- Location: 2126 Central Street, Evanston, IL 60201
- Current Status (as of December 2025): Fully operational, but listed as a rare franchise opportunity for a new independent owner/operator.
- Long-Time Owners: Dave Schaps and Liz Schaps. Dave Schaps has been the local operator and owner for over 16 years, establishing the bakery as a true neighborhood hub.
- Ownership Transition: The location is now available for a new entrepreneur to purchase and operate under the Great Harvest "Freedom Franchise" model.
- Local Distinction: The bakery is locally promoted as a "Woman-owned bakery," likely referencing Liz Schaps or the current operational manager, emphasizing local and female leadership within the business.
- Specialty: Daily milling of whole wheat flour on-site, using high-quality Montana wheat, and long traditional baking methods.
- Operating Hours: Monday-Saturday 6:00 AM – 6:30 PM; Sunday 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM.
The Rare 'Freedom Franchise' Model: Why Evanston’s Bakery is Unique
One of the most compelling aspects of the Great Harvest Bread Co. is its distinctive business structure, known as the Freedom Franchise™ model. This philosophy is the first secret to the Evanston location's success, allowing it to feel less like a chain and more like an authentic, independent neighborhood bakery.
What is the Freedom Franchise?
Unlike traditional franchising, the Freedom Franchise grants local operators—like Dave and Liz Schaps—significant autonomy over their daily operations, menu, and community engagement. This independence allows the Evanston bakery to truly cater to the specific tastes and needs of the North Shore community.
Franchisees receive essential support from the national brand, including a large catalog of proven recipes and operational guidance. However, they have the freedom to select their own daily bread schedule, choose local suppliers, and even develop unique menu items that resonate with Evanston residents and Northwestern University faculty and students. This blend of corporate support and local control is what makes the Evanston bakery feel so personal and deeply rooted.
The current rare opportunity is a chance for a new entrepreneur to inherit a successful, established business while immediately benefiting from this flexible, community-driven operational model. It’s a turnkey operation with the soul of a small business, a powerful combination in a competitive market like Chicagoland.
Must-Try Menu Entities: The 5 Pillars of Freshness
The second secret to the bakery’s success lies in its commitment to freshness and quality, anchored by the daily milling process. The aroma of freshly ground whole wheat is a signature element that greets every customer. Here are the five must-try categories that define the Great Harvest Evanston menu:
1. The Signature Whole Grain Loaves
The undisputed king of the menu is the Honey Whole Wheat bread. This old-fashioned loaf is made from scratch daily, utilizing high-quality Montana wheat. Its heavenly smell and soft, out-of-the-oven taste are what keep customers coming back. Other popular loaves include the classic Premium White bread and a broad selection of artisan whole grain breads. The bakery also features a rotating Daily Bread Schedule, which can include unique varieties like Monkey Bread, Apple Scrapple, Popeye, and Oregon Herb bread.
2. Gourmet Sandwiches and Savory Meals
Great Harvest is not just for bread; it’s a full-service bakery cafe that serves delicious, hearty meals. The sandwiches are a local favorite, built on their famous fresh-baked bread. Options include a variety of Hot Sandwiches and fresh daily selections. The bakery also offers a rotating selection of comforting soups, such as Italian Wedding Soup and Chicken Gumbo, which are perfect for a cold Illinois day.
3. Fresh Salads
For a lighter option, the bakery serves fresh, crisp salads. Staples like the Garden Salad and the more robust Greek Salad are popular lunch choices. These items showcase the bakery's ability to provide a full range of lunch options beyond just baked goods, increasing its appeal to a wider customer base.
4. Daily Baked Goods and Sweets
The sweets case is a powerful draw. Everything from giant cookies and sweet rolls to freshly baked Scones, Muffins, and Pies are available daily. Many of these sweet offerings are also made with whole grain wheat flour, providing a slightly healthier twist on classic treats.
5. Community and Catering Services
The Evanston location has a strong community presence, having served as a vendor for the City of Evanston and a partner with Northwestern University procurement services. They have also expanded their reach with pop-up shops, such as one in Glenview, demonstrating their commitment to serving the broader Chicagoland area. This community involvement and catering capacity are vital LSI entities that underscore the business's deep local integration.
The Future of Great Harvest Evanston on Central Street
The transition of ownership for the Great Harvest Bread Co. on Central Street represents a significant moment for the Evanston business community. After more than 16 successful years under the dedicated leadership of Dave and Liz Schaps, the opportunity for a new local entrepreneur to step into this ready-made success is truly rare.
The new owner will inherit a powerful legacy: a profitable, woman-owned local business that operates with the flexibility of the Freedom Franchise model, all while being anchored in one of the best communities in Chicagoland. This ensures the bakery will continue its tradition of providing high-quality, freshly milled artisan bread, savory sandwiches, and delicious baked goods for many years to come, maintaining its role as a key player in the Evanston food scene.
For those looking to invest in a business with a proven track record, a loyal customer base, and the operational freedom to innovate, the Great Harvest Bread Co. Evanston franchise opportunity is a compelling proposition. It’s a chance to continue a legacy of freshness, quality, and community service at 2126 Central Street.
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