We’re celebrating National Pizza Day by breaking down the TOP Data Pizza Report, analyzing how COVID-19 affected 12 of the largest pizza chains in the U.S., including Little Caesars, Pizza Hut, Papa John’s, Domino’s and Godfather’s Pizza, to name a few.
Pizza sales grew by four percent in total in 2021, significantly adding to the prospering $44 billion U.S. pizza market.
While independent pizza joints contributed a fair share to the four percent increase, it is chains that continue to serve the majority of “post-pandemic” slices, with overall visits increasing by 32 percent in 2021 compared to 2020.
This begs the question. Which pizza chain came out on top? A further breakdown of TOP’s report reflects the top five spots to grab a slice in each state. Here’s a closer look at five states.
Illinois: Little Caesars
Little Caesar’s came out on top in Illinois, followed by Domino’s, Pizza Hut, Papa John’s and Marco’s Pizza, respectively.
Indiana: Marco’s Pizza
The Hoosier State is the only state on our abbreviated list to break from the masses. Marco’s Pizza reigned triumphant over Little Caesars, coming in second before Domino’s, Papa John’s and Pizza Hut.
Michigan: Little Caesars
Little Caesar’s claimed the number one spot, with Domino’s, Marco’s Pizza, Papa John’s and Pizza Hut respectively.
Minnesota: Little Caesars
Yes—Little Caesars takes No. 1 in Minnesota, as well, followed by Domino’s, Papa John’s, Pizza Hut and Papa Murphy’s, appearing for the first time on this list.
Texas: Little Caesars
Finally, Little Caesars is again at the top of the list in Texas. The state is home to 506—12 percent—of America’s 4,169 locations, as of this month. Papa John’s is second on the list, Domino’s, Pizza Hut and Cicis filling the remaining spots, respectively.
According to TOP’s report, Little Caesars claims the unofficial title of “The Nation’s Favorite Pizza Chain”, ranking No. 1 in nearly half of all U.S. states. Though some chains on the list didn’t appear as often as others, the return of customers in large quantities to all pizza chains is a welcome sign for the industry’s future.
