The Hustle Daily Show
Frozen pizza: the big recession indicator
Apr 22, 2025
Frozen pizza sales skyrocketed to $6.5 billion in 2024, proving to be a key indicator of economic health. As consumers turn to affordable meal options during downturns, the popularity of brands like DiGiorno surges. Airbnb is adapting by including all fees in checkout, while Chipotle is eyeing expansion in Latin America. Evolution in frozen pizza quality and variety is highlighted, showcasing how this beloved food has become a recession staple, further driven by shifts in consumer dining habits.
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Quick takeaways
- Frozen pizza sales increase during economic downturns as consumers seek affordable meal options, reflecting a trend in recession indicators.
- Recent enhancements in frozen pizza varieties, including gourmet toppings and dietary options, have boosted its popularity among budget-conscious consumers.
Deep dives
The Resilience of Frozen Pizza During Economic Downturns
Frozen pizza sales tend to rise during economic downturns, providing a budget-friendly meal option for consumers seeking to save money. Historical sales, like a 3% increase during the Great Recession in 2009 and a substantial leap from $5.8 billion to $6.6 billion in 2020 amidst the pandemic, illustrate this trend. People often find frozen meals cheaper than dining out or even purchasing ingredients for homemade dishes. As economic uncertainty persists, this trend of increased frozen pizza consumption is expected to continue.
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