The pizza industry cooled off after the massive growth experienced during the COVID-19 pandemic, but according to an industry-leading survey, the potential for further expansion is likely.
The 2024 Pizza Industry Trends Report from Pizza Today is a leading barometer of pizza trends and sales. Comprised of the responses of more than 700 pizzeria owners across the country, it's an accurate look at key industry indicators, with segments of the survey even focusing regionally on the areas of Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, D.C. Because of this localized attention, we always find it as a helpful tool here at High Sabatino as we try to help our pizza-minded customers gain profitability.
The Key Findings and Trends
Several key trends emerged from this year's report, with many of these items being somewhat familiar to operators and consumers alike over the past few years.
Continued Rise of Online Ordering
The surge in online ordering is still important for consumers. While it was necessary for safety four years ago, today, it's a matter of convenience. Customers who grew accustomed to online ordering through takeout and delivery options still want to realize those same benefits.
Quality Is King
Despite the digital shift, operators unanimously agree that quality ingredients remain paramount in retaining customers. This commitment to excellence continues to define the industry's competitive edge. That said, a digital shift doesn't have to lead to a reduction in quality. With innovative holding and warming solutions, today's customers can grab to-go orders that are still hot.
Diverse Pizza Styles
Consumers now expect a variety of pizza styles, and pizzerias are responding accordingly. Providing menu choices like the recently popular Detroit-style pizza offers diverse options that are a must for satisfying evolving tastes. In many ways, it's the diversity in styles and preferences, as well as the curiosity to try new ones, that will continue to push the industry forward into more growth.
Pizza for Special Diets
The demand for plant-based and vegan offerings persists, with operators ramping up efforts to cater to this growing segment of consumers. Even more importantly, gluten-free pizza is taking the industry by storm, with many operators developing crusts made from ingredients like cauliflower.
Labor Challenges in the Pizza Industry
While the pandemic may be over, labor shortages persist, posing a significant challenge for pizzeria owners. Automation and streamlining operations have become essential strategies to navigate this ongoing issue. From pizza prep tables to pizza ovens, the entire operation should be aligned for productivity and profitability, regardless of who shows up for work.
A Quick Look at Virginia, Maryland, and D.C.
The pizza survey listed our region as part of the South in their report, but some of the trends for our area will be quite familiar to those who know the culinary traditions of the Mid-Atlantic.
While classics like New York Style remain ever-popular, there's a growing appetite for Sicilian and Deep Dish varieties, reflecting a preference for hearty, indulgent pies. Additionally, Neapolitan pizzas are making waves, adding a touch of authenticity to the southern pizza scene and catering to those craving a taste of Italy's culinary heritage.
When it comes to toppings, southern pizzerias stay true to national favorites like pepperoni, sausage, mushroom, extra cheese, and bacon. However, regional preferences shine through with unique additions such as onion, chicken, red/green pepper, beef, and ham. As pizzerias in the South continue to innovate, they're also experimenting with unconventional toppings. Our favorite? How about crab?! The bottom line is to look for bold flavor combinations in the future.
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