April 29/Chicago/Food & Beverage Close-Up -- According to a release, 62% of those polled say the most recent away-from-home pizza purchase was driven by a craving, followed most closely by 25% reporting it was more convenient than cooking. About one-fifth said price, coupons and promotions influenced the decision.
The findings are part of Technomic's new "Pizza Consumer Trend Report," designed to help operators and manufacturers better understand the changing pizza landscape and capitalize on opportunities for growth. Other findings include: * 93% eat pizza at least once a month, and the average consumer eats pizza nearly three times per month. * More consumers today are buying frozen pizza than were buying it in 2008 (81% compared to 74%). * 17% say that new items influence where they buy pizza. * 41% say they would like pizza establishments to offer healthier ingredients, examples being whole wheat crusts (42%), organic toppings and crusts (30% and 28%, respectively), and all-natural and locally-sourced ingredients (50% and 38%). * Limited-service pizza chains are differentiating themselves from local independents by featuring specialty and signature pizzas.