Pizza Hut enters the burger business: insights for independent pizzerias

Pizza Hut recently added the Cheeseburger Melt to their menu, showing how even pizza giants can diversify their offerings. For independent pizzerias, this move offers valuable lessons on staying competitive in a changing market. 

Here's how you can apply these insights to drive more sales for your pizza shop.

Diversify your menu

While pizza is the heart of your pizzeria, expanding your menu can bring in new customers and keep regulars coming back to try something different. Consider adding popular non-pizza items like hoagies. Just be careful not to overcomplicate things — keep your menu simple and easy to navigate.

Analyze your sales data regularly to see which new items are hits and which might need to be retired. Make sure your best sellers are prominently featured both on the menu and in your marketing materials. Don't be afraid to get creative with pizza-inspired takes on other dishes, like a pizza burger or Italian sandwich.

Leverage marketing strategies

Once you've expanded your pizzeria menu, you need to let people know about it. Launch promotions highlighting your new offerings, like a special burger night or limited-time discounts on new dishes. Use social media to show off your new items and drive orders.

Consider creating combo deals that pair a pizza with some of your new menu items. This can encourage customers to branch out and try something different alongside their favorite pie. 

Focus on quality and convenience

No matter what you add to the menu, maintain the high quality your pizza shop is known for. Emphasize fresh, local ingredients when possible. Offering healthier options like salads or vegetarian dishes can appeal to more health-conscious customers.

Make sure any new menu items work well for takeout and delivery. Convenience is key for busy customers, so portable options that travel well are ideal. Consider packaging that keeps different components separate to maintain quality during transit. 

Expand your menu thoughtfully, market your new offerings effectively, and maintain the quality your pizzeria is known for — that’s how you can compete successfully with big chains. 

As an independent pizzeria, you have the flexibility to quickly adapt to local tastes and trends — use this to your advantage and drive even more sales.

For more tips on how to grow your independent pizzeria and stay competitive, check out our other posts on restaurant marketing and menu innovation.