Pizza-less Recession

So I am a rarity, an American woman who does not ADORE pizza.

I like a slice now and again, but usually prefer some type of protein based comfort food (like a burger or wings) as opposed to a slice of pizza. However, since I have moved to NY my taste for commercial pizza (Pizza Hut, Domino's, Papa John's) has gone from barely existent to negligible since there are plenty of great slices available from local pizzerias.

But, for once I am not alone in my pizza-less desire. The economy is really hitting the major pizza chains according to a recent article from the Wall Street Journal.

According to the WSJ "while the overall U.S. fast-food category experienced compounded annual growth of 6.4% from 2002 to 2007, pizza sales rose only 2.5% during that period." The WSJ article goes on further to say that pizza chains are losing out as Americans tastes require more healthy and organic food options on one hand (maybe the NYC transfat ban and calorie postings are working?) and on the other hand they are losing to less expensive burger and sandwich options.

This trend isn't surprising if you have been paying any attention to pizza chain ads. Pizza Hut now offers pasta and Domino's now sells sandwiches obvious attempts to delve back into the hearts and stomachs of the average American.

So it seems, that my preference for a burger is part of a larger trend and I'm not the outcast I once believed I was!