As one of the busiest periods of the year for pizza approaches, Giordano’s, the iconic deep-dish brand, is bolstering its delivery game. The Chicago-based, mid-sized chain is making changes to how it manages delivery during high-volume moments—including Super Bowl weekend and National Pizza Day.
The chain has rolled out a new delivery management system, Cartwheel, across participating corporate and franchise locations designed to give stores more flexibility during demand spikes, particularly when in-house delivery capacity is stretched. The move is part of a broader effort, led by CEO Nick Scarpino, to modernize operations without disrupting the brand’s guest experience.
During peak periods, Giordano’s locations can now shift orders between in-house drivers and third-party delivery services based on real-time conditions, allowing stores to better manage timing, coverage and customer expectations. Store teams retain control over routing decisions, a key consideration during events that can overwhelm traditional delivery workflows.
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“Super Bowl weekend puts real pressure on delivery operations,” Scarpino said. “The goal is to give our teams more control in those moments while keeping the experience consistent for guests.”
The system also allows Giordano’s to maintain branded order tracking for customers regardless of whether a delivery is handled internally or through a third-party provider. Company execs say this helps preserve a consistent digital experience during periods when outside drivers are used to supplement store capacity.
“We’re seeing enterprise pizza chains make strategic investments in delivery technology that gives them more control, not less,” said Alex Vasilkin, co-founder and CEO of Cartwheel. “Giordano’s is an iconic brand that understands operational excellence starts with giving your teams the right tools. We’re proud to support their commitment to protecting the guest experience while expanding operational flexibility.”
The timing aligns with a marketing push tied to football season. Giordano’s recently introduced “Da Pizza,” a limited-time offering created in collaboration with Chicago Bears tight end Cole Kmet, commemorating the 40th anniversary of the Bears’ 1985 championship team. The pizza is available through February 9.
Scarpino’s familiarity with delivery technology dates back to his time at Portillo’s, where similar tools were used to manage delivery demand at scale. At Giordano’s, the approach reflects what the company describes as a measured strategy toward operational upgrades as it expands franchising efforts and continues to build out its tavern-style pizza offerings alongside its signature stuffed deep dish.
The new delivery platform is currently installed at select Giordano’s locations nationwide.
