According to THE SUN, In a surprising move, Anthony’s Coal Fired Pizza has closed its sole Rhode Island location in Cranston. The announcement was made via a note posted on the restaurant’s front door. Known for its fresh ingredients and dedication to pizza craft, this was the chain’s only presence in Rhode Island.
Business Response and Future Plans
While the specific reasons for the closure have not been disclosed, Garden City Center, where the restaurant was located, expressed appreciation for the seven years Anthony’s Coal Fired Pizza had been a part of the community. A spokesperson mentioned, “While they have made the decision to close their doors, we look forward to bringing exciting new businesses to our community soon.”
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Despite the closure, Anthony’s Coal Fired Pizza is not retreating from the scene. The chain, founded by Anthony Bruno, continues to operate multiple locations across six states: Delaware, Florida, Maine, Massachusetts, New Jersey, and New York. The company is planning to remodel its restaurant design to focus on cost-efficiency and enhance off-premise business opportunities.
Background on Anthony’s Coal Fired Pizza
Anthony Bruno, who originally hails from New York and later moved to Florida, was driven to open his own pizza place due to a lack of authentic pizza in his new state. Utilizing recipes passed down through generations, Bruno established the first Anthony’s Coal Fired Pizza in 2002. The brand has since been built on a passion for great pizza and a simple menu that highlights fresh ingredients.
In November 2021, Anthony’s Coal Fired Pizza & Wings was acquired by BurgerFi, a company recognized as QSR Magazine’s Breakout Brand of 2020 and Fast Casual’s 2021 #1 Brand of the Year. BurgerFi is also featured in Inc. Magazine’s Fastest Growing Private Companies List.
Broader Economic Impact
The closure of Anthony’s Coal Fired Pizza comes amid broader economic concerns. Inflation has been impacting both grocery and restaurant prices, with food-away-from-home costs rising 0.4% in May 2024 and showing a 4% increase compared to May 2023. This trend is reflected across various industries, including recent bankruptcies and closures, such as that of Big Lots and a notable chain serving musicians.
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As the economic landscape shifts, businesses like Anthony’s Coal Fired Pizza are adapting with new designs and strategies to meet evolving consumer demands.
