ST. LOUIS – Philly Pretzel Factory is expanding its presence in the St. Louis area, as it will take over 11 Pretzel Pretzel locations throughout the region. And the Philadelphia-based company, known for its Philly-style pretzels, which are thicker, doughier and more elongated than traditional soft pretzels, isn’t stopping there. “We do plan to grow out there,” said Philly Pretzel CEO Dan DiZio, adding that the company hopes to eventually open between 60 and 70 stores across Missouri and Illinois.