Dominos are small, rectangular blocks used to play a variety of games. Each domino has a number on each end, called dots or pips, that indicates the value of the domino when placed edge to edge with another domino of equal value. A domino may also have a blank face, or one with only a line across the center. The digits are usually colored black, but some sets have white pips or no pips at all.
The game of domino is popular worldwide and transcends linguistic and cultural boundaries. It provides a common social experience and fosters camaraderie between participants. In fact, dominoes have become a universal symbol for humanity’s innate desire to connect with and build community.
In the early 1960s, John H. Monaghan opened the first Domino’s Pizza restaurant in Ypsilanti, Michigan. He built the business based on two core values: 1) to serve a high quality product at a reasonable price and 2) to listen to customers and address their needs.
Domino’s was a latecomer to takeout and delivery, but when COVID-19 hit, the company was in a position where it needed to make rapid changes if it wanted to remain competitive. Monaghan listened to what the customers were telling him and reacted by making several key changes.
He instituted a new leadership training program, relaxed the dress code and began to talk directly with employees. He emphasized one of the company’s most important values: “Champion Our Customers.” By listening to their complaints and addressing those problems quickly, Domino’s was able to rebound in no time at all.
During the same period, Domino’s also introduced a number of new products and expanded its delivery service. The chain also focused on placing restaurants near college campuses to cater to a demographic that liked to take out or order pizza while studying. By implementing these strategic changes, Domino’s was able to regain their market share in the quick-service food industry.
Today, Domino’s is one of the largest pizza chains in the world with a global presence. The company continues to use a strategy of listening to their customer base and responding to their needs in the best way possible. Dominos’ commitment to their customers has paid off and has led to record-breaking profits for the company in recent quarters. With an estimated 25,000 locations globally, Domino’s is still growing strong. This is good news for investors and shows how a business can turn things around with the right strategy in place. It is a lesson that any company can learn from.