Maximize dessert sales: tips for independent pizzerias

As an independent pizzeria owner, you're always looking for ways to boost your bottom line. One sweet opportunity you might be overlooking? Desserts! Not only can they increase your average order value, but they're also a great way to build customer loyalty. After all, once a customer discovers your amazing tiramisu, they're more likely to add it to their future orders.

Let's dig into some strategies to help you maximize dessert sales and make the most of your online ordering system.

Make desserts stand out online

Your online menu is prime real estate for showcasing your desserts. Make sure they're front and center, not hidden at the bottom of the page. Use mouth-watering photos and tempting descriptions to catch your customers' eyes. Consider featuring a "Dessert of the Week" to create excitement and encourage repeat visits.

Upsell, upsell, upsell

Train your staff to suggest desserts with every order, both in-store and over the phone. A simple "Would you like to try our homemade cannoli?" can go a long way. For online orders, set up your system to automatically prompt customers to add a dessert before checkout. You could even offer a small discount for adding a dessert to their order.

Create irresistible bundles

People love a good deal. Create meal bundles that include desserts, like a "Family Night Special" with a large pizza, breadsticks, and a dessert. Highlight these bundles on your website and social media to attract bargain-hunters and families looking for an easy dinner solution.

Leverage social media

Speaking of social media, use it to show off your desserts! Post drool-worthy photos and videos of your sweet treats. Encourage customers to share their own pics with a special hashtag — you could even offer a small discount for those who do. This user-generated content can be a powerful marketing tool.

Email marketing magic

Don't forget about email! Send out regular newsletters featuring your dessert specials and new additions to your sweet menu. You could even create a "Dessert Club" where members get exclusive offers and first dibs on limited-time treats.

Personalize the experience

Use your online ordering system to track customer preferences. If someone often orders tiramisu, you could send them a special offer for a new coffee-flavored dessert. This personalized touch can make customers feel valued and more likely to indulge.

Offer samples

If you have a dining room, consider offering small samples of your desserts to dine-in customers. This can be a great way to introduce people to items they might not have tried otherwise. For takeout and delivery, you could include a small sample with large orders to entice customers to try a full portion next time.

Seasonal specials

Keep things fresh by offering seasonal desserts. A pumpkin spice cannoli in the fall or a strawberry shortcake pizza in the summer can create buzz and give customers a reason to order dessert.

Quality matters

Last but not least, make sure your desserts are top-notch. Whether you're making them in-house or sourcing from a local bakery, quality is key. A truly delicious dessert will keep customers coming back for more.

For more tips on improving your pizza business, check out our full menu of marketing insights.