Does Domino’s Pizza Exist in Italy?

The presence of Domino’s Pizza in Italy is a topic of ongoing debate among food enthusiasts and people who frequent Italian pizzerias. While the American chain has made some inroads in certain parts of the country, it faces a unique set of challenges that set it apart from traditional Italian pizza establishments.

Domino’s Exit from Italy (2022)

One of the most recent and significant moments in the history of Domino’s in Italy occurred on August 10, 2022, when the company decided to close its last 29 outlets and leave the country after a seven-year struggle. This decision came as a result of intense competition from authentic Italian pizzerias known for their high-quality, handmade pizzas and more efficient delivery services, which were forced to adapt to the demands of the post-COVID era.

Domino’s had initially planned to open 880 restaurants across Italy. However, the reality of the situation proved to be much different. With an estimated 127,000 pizzerias, ristoranti, and bar-pizzerias scattered throughout the country, the American chain found itself in a daunting competitive landscape. Despite its multinational presence, Domino’s struggled to compete with the opera d'arte that Italian pizzerias are known for, which involves both the quality of the dough and the skill of the pizzaioli (pizza makers).

In a poignant goodbye, one can only recall the phrase, "RIP Domino’s at least you tried." This statement reflects the mixed emotions of those who saw the American brand as a symbol of pizza, albeit not the ideal representation of it.

Is Domino’s Pizza Still Found in Italy?

While Domino’s officially exited the Italian market, the brand is not completely absent. There are still Domino’s Pizza establishments in certain areas throughout the country, with Milan being one of the notable examples. However, for many Italians, the idea of resorting to Domino’s seems almost incomprehensible.

Milan’s Dominos: A Residual Presence

Despite the brand's exit from the majority of the country, Domino’s remained operational in a few select areas like Milan. The reasoning behind this is intriguing. The decision to keep some Domino’s in Milan, a city known for its vibrant food scene and historical significance, could be attributed to its proximity to a major university and its unique delivery service. According to one account, a Domino’s location near the oldest university in the world is strategically placed near student housing, offering deliveries long after other establishments have closed for the night.

"Sometimes students have a lot to learn," quips a food critic who witnessed the presence of Domino’s in Bologna, a city renowned for its heritage and academic excellence.

Domino’s Pizza in Italy: A Noteworthy Curiosity

For some, encountering Domino’s in Italy is a curious experience. During a visit to Bologna, a person expressed horror at finding a Domino’s pizza in the heart of the city. This visit, combined with a previous experience in Ann Arbor, Michigan, where the Domino’s chain began, highlights the stark contrast between the brand's origins and its presence in Italy.

Historically, people in Italy opt for authentic and artisanal pizza-making methods that have been passed down generations. The question of why students and others in Italy would choose Domino’s over their own traditional options remains a puzzle. However, it seems that some students find solace in the accessibility and convenience of the chain, perhaps due to its proximity to student accommodations.

Conclusion

While Domino’s Pizza exists in Italy in limited areas, the brand faces significant challenges in a market where authentic and traditional pizza-making is highly valued. The exit of Domino’s and the presence of a handful of stores in certain regions represent a complex interplay of consumer preferences, local competition, and the unique dynamics of the Italian pizza industry.