The traditional method of ordering pizza by calling a human and listing desired toppings is becoming a thing of the past. While services like DoorDash and Uber Eats have streamlined the process, further improvements in pizza delivery are underway.
For example, Domino’s has enhanced the experience with an in-app tracker that updates customers at each stage of the order process.
A significant shift is happening in the pizza delivery industry as major companies introduce innovative ways to handle orders. Though instantaneous delivery is still a dream, these advancements are notable.
Papa John’s, aiming for an enjoyable ordering experience, has introduced several AI-driven innovations in collaboration with Google AI. These include voice ordering via the app, personalized push notifications, and emails based on customer preferences. Additionally, real-time customization of the website and app, along with an AI-powered chatbot to address customer inquiries, are part of the new offerings.
Todd Penegor, President and CEO of Papa John’s, emphasized, “At Papa John’s, our aspiration is to be the best pizza makers in the business. We aim to anticipate our customers’ needs and provide tailored recommendations and offers.”
In light of its challenging fourth quarter in 2024, where comparable sales decreased by 4% year-over-year and operating income dropped by 30%, Papa John’s is implementing strategic changes. As the third most popular pizza retailer in the US behind Domino’s and Pizza Hut, Papa John’s is focused on personalized AI-driven innovations to improve customer experiences.
Penegor addressed these challenges in the company’s 2024 fourth-quarter earnings call, predicting significant benefits from investments in personalized brand experiences in 2025. These changes are expected to enhance customer frequency and reduce the time between visits.
