Pizza powerhouses face tough tests

Sales declines at Pizza Hut and Domino's Pizza demonstrate the challenge of staying on top. PizzaMarketplace takes a look at their numbers and others', too.

TV ads now affordable for pizzerias

With Web-based advertising like Spot Runner, TV advertising now could be affordable for even small pizza companies.

Is a pizza franchise right for you?

If you want to succeed in the pizza business, a proven franchise system could prove a good bet.

Mushroom prices slicing pizzerias' profits

Weather and energy costs have combined to tighten mushroom supplies, and that means prices are rising sharply.

Restaurant operators need young workforce, experts say

At the Mid-Atlantic Expo, the NRA Chairman and the Restaurant Doctor say it's time to pass on the responsibility to your crew.

NLRB sides with pizza drivers union

The National Labor Relations Board has determined a Domino's Pizza franchisee and the American Union of Pizza Delivery Drivers will discuss their differences…

Call center, profit center

Improving technology and solid ROI are making call centers a more attractive investment for pizza companies.

Commentary: Are you sure it's time to add a pizzeria?

The question of when to add your next pizzeria is never an easy one to answer, especially when several independents have made a fortune on just one.

Wings lift pizza sales in fall

Sales at pizzerias already are strong in the fall, but sales of wings send them flying. So popular are wings in the U.S., they've evolved into a restaurant…

Commentary: Restaurant operators can help a fallen soldier's family

Food donations to families of fallen soldiers not only meets a need, it boosts admiration for your brand.

Drivers unionize Florida Domino's Pizza store

The April unionization of a Domino's Pizza store is a first for the U.S., but the union's leader believes it won't be the last.

Legendary pizzerias bet on fast-casual makeovers

Shakey's Pizza and Papa Gino's Pizza are getting new names and makeovers to strengthen their positions in the growing fast-casual dining segment.

Clean restrooms equal happy customers

by Julie Sturgeon — independent journalist, CEOEditor, Inc.

Your restrooms matter to customers, and, yes, they require constant attention. But at least the process isn't rocket science.

Tiny bubbles, big profits for pizzerias

Soda sales are as profitable as ever, but an ever-growing supply of new soft drinks is leading pizza operators to broaden their inventory beyond the fountain.

Pest practices

Deliberate pest prevention measures in restaurants are essential, because one cockroach can equal 10,000 before you know it.

Who's Who: Gary Peek

Experience gained working for Domino's Pizza helped Intura Solutions president Gary Peek revolutionize back office management and POS in the pizza industry.

Employee background checks go hi-tech

No pizza operation is too small to avoid doing background checks on new hires.

Commentary: Time and punishment in the pizzeria

Was a Domino's Pizza manager's "free work" demand fair punishment for lateness or an over-the-top penalty for a small offense?

Computer crash contingency

Don't be a dummy when the POS system crashes. Have a plan in place to continue taking orders and serving customers.

Emerging Concept: Garlic Jim's Famous Gourmet Pizza

Filling the nationwide vacuum for speedy gourmet pizza delivery is the goal for 31-unit Garlic Jim's. The chain wants 500 pizza stores by 2013.