Italian restaurant chains expand as pizzeria and fast-casual models grow

The Italian restaurant sector is seeing significant growth in organized chains, particularly within the pizzeria segment. According to data from the Osservatorio Ristorazione Moderna-TheFork, pizzerias represent a highly replicable business model. Among the 767 restaurants belonging to large groups analyzed, Italian cuisine accounts for 22%, Mediterranean for 13%, and pizzerias for 10% of the offerings.

In the fast-casual segment, La Piadineria is expanding its footprint in the Liguria region. The chain, which operates over 570 locations across Italy, France, and New York, is opening a new restaurant in Imperia. This expansion follows its existing presence in Savona and aims to serve residents, workers, and tourists with its specialized piadina menu.