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The latest news on pizza for 2025 highlights a dynamic industry shaped by evolving consumer preferences, innovative toppings, technology adoption, and sustainability initiatives.[1][2][3]

Delivery and Dining Trends: Third-party delivery apps continue to gain momentum, with over 32% of operators reporting the highest ROI from these services. Yet, more than half of pizzerias have not adopted them, citing high fees and quality concerns. In 2025, more pizzerias are predicted to leverage these platforms strategically for marketing and customer reach. Carryout and online ordering remain strong, while dine-in traffic has not fully rebounded. Pizzerias are expected to enhance the dine-in experience with exclusive menus, family entertainment, and themed events.[1]

Menu Innovation and Topping Trends: Pizzerias are expanding their offerings to include plant-based proteins, gluten-free crusts, and globally inspired toppings. There is a clear shift toward diverse and adventurous flavors, with briny and fermented toppings like olives, kimchi, and sauerkraut gaining popularity. Salad-topped pizzas—such as Caesar or Greek styles—are trending. Fruit toppings like blueberries, cranberries, and raspberries are being paired with cheeses and spicy meats for unique flavor profiles. There’s also a move to alternative sausages, such as bratwurst, chorizo, and ‘nduja.[2][3]

Crust Innovation: Sourdough is emerging as a popular pizza crust ingredient, driven by consumer demand for more crunch and complex flavors. Cheddar encrusted crispy edges are increasingly found alongside traditional mozzarella and pepperoni, which still remain top choices.[3]

Sustainability: Eco-friendly practices, such as recyclable packaging and sourcing local/sustainable ingredients, are becoming industry standards.[2]

Technology and AI: Technology is leveling the playing field, particularly for small and mid-size pizzerias. AI is being used to enhance marketing, streamline operations, and personalize customer experiences. AI tools also assist franchise-focused pizzerias in identifying suitable franchisees and optimizing communication, driving efficiency and brand consistency.[2][7]

Regional and Gourmet Trends: Regional styles, such as Detroit-style and grandma pizzas, are spreading beyond their origins. Upscale toppings like mortadella with pistachios and gourmet meats are appearing more frequently. Comfort food crossovers—like meatballs with marinara or corned beef and sauerkraut on pizza—blend nostalgia with novelty.[5]

Dessert Pizzas and Personalization: Dessert pizzas, especially among Gen Z, are gaining traction. Nutella, sprinkles, and other sweet toppings are transforming pizza into a customizable, playful dish. The trend towards personalization, storytelling, and culinary experimentation is helping drive significant category growth, with the global pizza market projected to grow from $155.2 billion in 2024 to over $226 billion by 2033.[5]

Hot Honey and Spicy Flavors: Hot honey is now a staple topping, with chefs experimenting with infused variations. Spicy profiles, including chili crisp and sriracha drizzles, are increasingly popular, reflecting a broader consumer appetite for bold flavors.[3][5][6]

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