In today’s digital age, technology has permeated almost every aspect of our lives, including how we order, make, and even enjoy pizza. From automated pizza-making machines to advanced delivery tracking systems, the pizza industry is undergoing a technological revolution.
Let’s delve into ten technology trends that are changing the pizza industry!
- Online Ordering Platforms
Gone are the days of calling in your pizza order. With the rise of online ordering platforms, customers can now conveniently order their favorite pizzas with just a few clicks or taps on their smartphones. According to a report by Statista, online food delivery is expected to reach $500 billion by 2028, showcasing the growing preference for digital ordering channels.
- Mobile Apps
Pizza restaurants are investing heavily in mobile apps to streamline the ordering process and enhance customer experience. These apps offer features like personalized recommendations, easy payment options, and order tracking. Business Insider notes that around half of the sales for major pizza chains come through digital channels, and consumers spend about 18% more on orders placed online.
- Delivery Drones and Robots
Delivery drones and robots are increasingly being explored by pizza companies to make deliveries faster and more efficient. Domino’s tested drone delivery in New Zealand, while companies like Starship Technologies have deployed delivery robots in select cities.
- Automated Pizza-Making Machines
With the advancements in robotics and automation, pizza-making machines are becoming more prevalent. These machines can knead dough, spread sauce, and add toppings with precision and consistency, reducing labor costs and ensuring quality.
- Smart Ovens
Smart ovens equipped with IoT (Internet of Things) technology allow pizza shops to monitor and control the baking process remotely. These ovens can adjust temperature and baking time based on the type of pizza being cooked, resulting in perfectly baked pies every time.
- Blockchain Traceability
Blockchain technology is being used to enhance supply chain transparency in the pizza industry. By tracking the journey of ingredients from farm to table, consumers can have confidence in the quality and authenticity of the pizza they’re eating.
- Virtual Reality Dining Experiences
Virtual reality (VR) is revolutionizing the dining experience by allowing customers to virtually visit pizzerias, interact with menus, and even customize their pizzas before placing an order. This immersive technology enhances engagement and helps businesses stand out in a competitive market.
- Augmented Reality Pizza Design
Augmented reality (AR) apps enable customers to visualize their pizza creations in real time before ordering. By overlaying digital images onto the physical world, AR technology lets users experiment with different toppings and crusts, creating a more interactive ordering experience.
- Artificial Intelligence for Personalization
Pizza brands are leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) to analyze customer data and offer personalized recommendations. By understanding individual preferences and ordering patterns, AI algorithms can suggest relevant menu items, promotions, and upsells.
- Contactless Payments and Pickup Lockers
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, contactless payments and pickup lockers have become increasingly popular in the pizza industry. These technologies minimize physical contact between customers and staff, ensuring safety and peace of mind.
The Future of Pizza
Technology continues to shape the way we order, create, and enjoy pizza. From online ordering platforms to delivery drones and AI-powered personalization, the pizza industry is embracing innovation to meet the evolving needs of customers. By staying on top of these ten technological trends that are changing the pizza industry, pizza shop owners can stay competitive and deliver exceptional dining experiences in the digital age.
Rosati’s Pizza is excited to see the changes that technology will bring to the pizza industry in the coming years, and we support our franchisees in embracing these tools. If you are curious to learn more about Rosati’s or how to open your own pizza franchise, we’d love to speak with you. Reach out to our team today to explore our current franchise opportunities!