DPZ vs PZZA: Which Pizza Stock Is Better Placed at the Moment?

Core Insights - Both Domino's Pizza, Inc. (DPZ) and Papa John's International, Inc. (PZZA) are significant players in the U.S. pizza market, benefiting from strategic partnerships and digital transformation [1][2] - The restaurant industry is experiencing growth due to higher menu pricing and average check growth, although challenges such as elevated labor costs and food inflation persist [3] Domino's Pizza (DPZ) - Domino's is a leading player in the U.S. quick-service restaurant industry, with strong international growth, particularly in China and India [4] - The partnership with DoorDash is expected to enhance revenues by expanding the customer base and tapping into a $1 billion opportunity in the aggregator marketplace [5] - The introduction of the Parmesan Stuffed Crust pizza represents a significant menu innovation aimed at attracting customers [6] - The revamped loyalty program has added 2.5 million active members, indicating potential for sustained growth [7] - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Domino's 2025 sales and EPS implies year-over-year growth of 4.9% and 6.5%, respectively [11] - DPZ stock has gained 3.6% in the past six months, outperforming the industry and S&P 500 [13] - DPZ is trading at a forward price-to-earnings ratio of 26.2X, above its median of 25.47X [15] Papa John's (PZZA) - Papa John's focuses on its core product, pizza, and has implemented a barbell pricing strategy to drive orders, resulting in a 4% year-over-year increase in pizza orders [8] - The company operates 2,503 international locations and plans to open 180 to 200 new units in the full year [9] - The loyalty program overhaul aims to enhance engagement among its 37 million members, with plans for further personalization [10] - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Papa John's 2025 sales implies a year-over-year increase of 2.1%, but EPS is expected to decrease by 23.9% [12] - PZZA shares have declined 12% in the past six months [13] - PZZA's forward earnings multiple is 21.64X, below its median of 18.75X [15] Conclusion - Domino's is currently better positioned than Papa John's, supported by stronger sales momentum, strategic growth initiatives, and positive investor sentiment [17] - Papa John's faces operational challenges and less favorable earnings revisions, impacting its competitive stance [19]