This article was inspired by content originally published on TheStreet
Introduction
When the world’s biggest pizza chain talks, the entire industry should listen. Domino’s Pizza recently raised eyebrows with an earnings report that didn’t just highlight sales numbers, but sounded an alarm about a shift in customer behavior that could ripple through pizza shops big and small.
The original report, published on TheStreet.com by Tony Owusu, sheds light on something pizza enthusiasts, suppliers, and shop owners alike need to consider: customers are pulling back, ordering less frequently, and becoming more price-sensitive than ever before.
So what’s happening and more importantly, what can we do about it?
The Squeeze on Pizza Orders
Domino’s CEO Russell Weiner noted that “lower-income customers are pulling back,” adding that the company’s key $7.99 carryout deal is still going strong, but overall check sizes are shrinking. While that’s troubling for a giant like Domino’s, it’s also an opportunity for smaller, independent shops to think differently.
Pizza Pro Tip: Don’t just compete on price compete on experience. Now is the perfect moment to double down on value that goes beyond discounts.
Turning Caution Into Opportunity
If you run a neighborhood pizzeria, you probably already know that local loyalty can trump big-brand deals if you nurture it. Here’s how you can turn Domino’s cautionary tale into a recipe for resilience:
1. Highlight Signature Ingredients
Are you using local, organic, or artisan ingredients? Make sure your customers know it. Pizza enthusiasts are more willing to spend when they feel they’re getting quality and uniqueness. Consider adding specialty items like smoked mozzarella or heirloom tomato sauce ingredients you can source from trusted suppliers.
2. Upgrade Your At-Home Experience
Domino’s can win on delivery speed and app tech, but many pizza lovers are rediscovering the joy of making pizza at home. Shops can tap into this trend by selling DIY pizza kits or holding pizza-making workshops.
3. Leverage Smart Marketing Tools
One overlooked insight from Domino’s report: digital ordering is king. But smaller shops can get left behind without the right tools.
A Word to Suppliers and Industry Partners
For suppliers, Domino’s warning means your restaurant customers may tighten their orders or request more flexible terms. Now is the time to strengthen partnerships by offering value adds like bulk discounts, seasonal promotions, or new product lines that help shops stand out.
The Takeaway
Ultimately, this trend is a reminder: while big chains can cut prices to survive, independent pizza businesses thrive by staying personal, memorable, and community-driven. Whether it’s investing in better ingredients, smarter technology, or customer experiences that keep people coming back, the key is to make every slice feel special.
Affiliate Disclosure: This article was inspired by content originally published on TheStreet. This article contains affiliate links, which means we may earn a commission if you purchase them.
