8 Marketing Missteps That Hurt Sales—And What to Do Instead

Common Marketing Mistakes to Avoid So You Can Sell More Pizza.

Even the best pizza won’t sell if customers don’t know it’s there, and small marketing mistakes can add up fast. The good news? When you know what not to do, it’s easier to focus on what works.

When it comes to marketing your Hunt Brothers ® Pizza program, not all efforts are created equal. We’ve worked with thousands of convenience stores across the country and seen what works—and what doesn’t.

Sometimes, the best marketing tip isn’t what to do, but what to stop doing. If your pizza sales aren’t where you want them to be, the problem may not be your product (it’s great!), but how it’s being promoted.

Here are some of the most common marketing missteps we’ve seen—and what you can do instead to turn things around.

 

1. Hiding the Pizza Warmer

Why it doesn’t work:

If customers can’t see it, they won’t buy it. A hidden or hard-to-spot warmer means missed sales.

What to do instead:

Place your pizza warmer in a high-traffic area, like near the register or beverage coolers. Add POP signage and keep the warmer clean and well-stocked so it draws attention and drives impulse buys.

2. Using Old, Worn, or Outdated POP Materials

Why it doesn’t work:

Torn signs, faded posters, or expired promotions make your store—and your pizza—look neglected.

What to do instead:

Use current, clean, and branded POP materials. Swap out old signage regularly. Your TBHC Delivers Account Manager will bring updated materials and set them up in all the right zones for you.

 3. Not Talking About Pizza at the Register

Why it doesn’t work:

If your staff never mentions pizza, customers may not even know it’s available—especially new customers.

What to do instead:

Encourage suggestive selling at checkout. Simple phrases like “Would you like to add a Hunk?” or “Want to try our Thin Crust?” can boost ticket size and bring attention to your pizza program.

 4. No Sampling, No Freebies

Why it doesn’t work:

Customers who’ve never tried your pizza may hesitate to spend money on something unfamiliar.

What to do instead:

Offer small samples during peak hours to generate interest. Sampling turns hesitant shoppers into repeat customers. Your Account Manager can help with tips for timing and setup for in-store demos.

 5. Offering Just One Crust or One Style

Why it doesn’t work:

Not all customers want the same thing. Limiting options reduces the chance of repeat purchases.

What to do instead:

Offer both Original and Thin Crust to appeal to different tastes. Promote variety and encourage combos like “Try Thin Crust with a side of WingBites®.”

 6. Forgetting to Rotate Product and Track Waste

Why it doesn’t work:

Old or dried-out pizza sitting in the warmer hurts your reputation—and your sales. If it doesn’t look fresh, customers won’t buy it.

What to do instead:

Use your Build-To and Waste Tracking Charts to prep the right amount of product for each daypart. Keep pizzas looking hot and fresh. If it’s been sitting too long, it’s time to pull it.

 7. No Clear Combos or Meal Deals

Why it doesn’t work:

If customers don’t know what a “deal” looks like, they’re less likely to add more to their order.

What to do instead:

Make meal deals obvious! Use POP to highlight combos like “Hunk A Pizza® + Drink” or “Pizza + WingBites® + Chips = Full Meal.” Keep pricing simple and signage clear.

 8. Not Leveraging Your TBHC Delivers Account Manager

Why it doesn’t work:

Going it alone means missing out on expert advice, free tools, and ongoing support that can help your store thrive.

What to do instead:

Lean on your Account Manager for ideas, signage, inventory help, training support, and marketing strategies. We’ve seen what works and are here to help make it work for you.

 

What Works? Consistency, Visibility, and Support

The most successful pizza programs follow a simple formula:

Consistent execution – prep fresh, follow the Build-To Chart, and rotate pizzas regularly.

Clear marketing – use POP materials, update signage, and promote deals.

Friendly service – train staff to upsell and talk about what’s hot and ready.

Partnership with TBHC Delivers – let us help you with the tools, training, and strategies to grow your business.

You don’t need flashy marketing or gimmicks—you just need to do the small things right, every day.

 

Final Word: Let the Product Shine.

Hunt Brothers Pizza is a brand people know and trust—and when customers see it, smell it, and hear about it from your team, they’re far more likely to buy. So don’t let your pizza get overlooked. Avoid the common marketing pitfalls, lean into what works, and let your store become the go-to spot for great food, fast.

📣 Need fresh POP materials or want help promoting your Pizza Shoppe?

Your TBHC Delivers Account Manager is just a call away—and always ready to support your success.