From pad thai pies to classic cheese, every generation has its pizza preferences. Stay on top of the trends to keep your menu fresh and appealing to everyone — Gen Z, boomers, and everyone in between.
The pizza industry is hotter than ever, raking in an estimated $50.1 billion in 2024, according to IBISWorld.1 But as low startup costs fuel new pizzerias, competition is rising. To stay ahead of the curve, consider catering to each generation’s tastes — whether it’s bold flavors for Gen Z or classic pies for boomers.
How you serve your pizza matters, too. Younger generations are all about fast, seamless delivery, while older guests tend to stick with the traditional dine-in experience. Understanding what each group wants, and how they want it, can make all the difference.
Toppings Talk
Gen Z may be young, but they’re already changing the pizza game. With a taste for bold, international flavors, this generation is fueling the rise of adventurous pies.
To win this demographic over, it’s important to think outside the pizza box. I’m a big fan of the Cheeseburger Pizza trend ─ level up with Ultimo!® Ground Beef Crumbles, Peak Fresh Produce®, and other high-quality ingredients. This America-meets-Italy remix is unconventional enough to grab Gen Z’s attention but also surprisingly universal, with about 86% of consumers celebrating the flavor.
Pro Pizza Tip: Since nearly 20% of consumers are seeking vegan options, consider including Roma® Vegan Italian Sausage-Style Crumbles as a pizza topping.
Saucy Business
According to a report from McCormick®, more than half of boomers enjoy trying new dishes but prefer classic flavors.2 And when it comes to pizza, nothing hits home quite like a traditional red sauce.
But who says traditional has to be boring? A Charcuterie Pizza, for instance, begins with an Ultimo! Dough Ball and a simple tomato base using Ultimo! Pizza Sauce. It’s then topped with a blend of creamy Bacio® Mozzarella and rich Nature's Best Dairy® Brie along with an array of charcuterie favorites — Milano, Calabrese, Toscano salami, and prosciutto. Castelvetrano olives, piquant peppers, and Marcona almonds add vibrant flavors and textures, while stuffed crimini mushrooms bring a hearty, savory touch. A sprinkle of fresh parsley completes this elevated take on a traditional pizza — it’s a simple combination that takes familiar flavors to new heights.
Pro Pizza Tip: Four out of every five consumers enjoy tomato sauce. So, when in doubt, tomato it out.
Crust Worthy
Though nearly 20% of all consumers are seeking gluten-free options, gluten-free pizza crusts often lack flavor and fall apart under the weight of toppings. Thankfully, Roma Frozen Gluten-Free Crusts are here to save the day.
These crusts give the traditional dough a run for its money. Made with clean, simple ingredients like brown rice and tapioca flour, they’re certified gluten-free, non-GMO, and free from nuts, soy, and corn. From the 12” Seasoned Vegan Gluten-Free Crust to cauliflower-based options, there’s something to suit every palate.
Pro Pizza Tip: Brush your gluten-free pizza crust with olive oil or garlic butter before baking for an extra boost of flavor and a beautiful golden finish.
Order Up
When it comes to pizza ordering, each generation has its own way of doing it. Research from the National Restaurant Association shows that young adults rely heavily on takeout and delivery — 72% of millennials consider it “essential” to their lifestyle. Meanwhile, older adults still enjoy the classic dine-in experience.3
The solution? Offer options that cater to both. Whether it’s speedy delivery for the on-the-go crowd or a cozy dine-in atmosphere, knowing how each generation likes to enjoy their pizza can keep your guests coming back for more.
Pro Pizza Tip: Offer an easy-to-use online platform for all generations.
1. https://www.ibisworld.com/united-states/market-research-reports/pizza-restaurants-industry/
2. https://www.mccormickfona.com/articles/2023/08/baby-boomer-bites---2023-consumer-insight
