The article stated that over 2,500 independent pizzerias closed last year. Examples may differ in your area, but this article maintains that local pizza joints are facing stiff competition from the big boys and smaller, higher end crafted pizza type outlets. I believe this is true for every kind of retail operation, be it a decor store, a hobby store, clothier, etc.
“2,500 independent pizzerias closed last year”
And how many opened?? None closed in my area. In fact, a few more have opened recently.