PIZZA PILGRIMS’ JOURNEY TO NET ZERO

03/03/2025

Pizza Pilgrims has embraced resilient new ways of securing ingredients by sourcing local, hydroponically grown basil from Harvest London, addressing supply chain challenges driven by climate change's impact on European basil farms. Switching to a UK-based, innovative supplier has helped Pizza Pilgrims reduce their Scope 3 impact, enhance the quality of their food, and align with their commitment to delivering great-tasting pizza with a lighter footprint.

50% EFFICIENCY IMPROVEMENT

in basil crop yield due to optimized plant utilization.

40% LOWER

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT

40% LOWER ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT

of basil compared to traditional systems.

HALVED WASTE

thanks to longer shelf life and tailored ordering.

WHO ARE PIZZA PILGRIMS?

Founded in 2012, Pizza Pilgrims is a UK-based pizzeria brand renowned for its authentic Neapolitan pizza and dedication to quality ingredients. With locations across the country, the brand combines a love for tradition with an eye towards the future.  

Sustainability is baked into Pizza Pilgrims’ philosophy. From embracing circular economy principles at their Selfridges pizzeria to sourcing innovative local ingredients, they continually push boundaries to enhance both taste and environmental impact.

THE CHALLENGE

They were reliant on international supply chains for key ingredients like basil, resulting in higher emissions and less control over quality.
There was significant waste due to a short shelf life and unpredictable delivery schedules.
Economic pressures were driving the need for resilient, cost-effective supply solutions.

OBJECTIVES

Source basil locally to reduce transport emissions and improve freshness.
Minimize waste through tailored ordering and more resilient crops.
Enhance product quality while maintaining cost-efficiency in a volatile market.

THE SOLUTION

Pizza Pilgrims were introduced to Harvest London who have transformed their basil sourcing process. By utilising hydroponic farming techniques, Harvest London grows high-yield, high-quality basil tailored to the needs of Pizza Pilgrims’ pizzerias.

HOW THE PARTNERSHIP WITH HARVEST LONDON HELPED

Harvest London farms in a controlled environment, providing our basil with the exact mix of light, water, nutrients and humidity that they need to thrive, all powered by renewable energy! Their 'climate-recipe' for our basil is appropriately called ‘Italian summer’ and they can grow the produce year-round, with no pesticides and minimising waste at every step of the process.

Thom Elliot,
Co-founder, Pizza Pilgrims

KEY BENEFITS AND RESULTS

Better Crop Utilisation and Yield

Optimised plant use (55% leaf vs. 55% stem) has improved crop efficiency by 50%.
Tailored ordering ensures optimal production and reduced waste.

Superior Product Quality

Optimised plant use (55% leaf vs. 55% stem) has improved crop efficiency by 50%.
Tailored ordering ensures optimal production and reduced waste.

Reduced Environmental Impact

Locally grown basil eliminates the need for air freight.
All London deliveries are made via e-bike, contributing to a 40% lower carbon footprint compared to traditional supply chains.

Lower Waste

Longer shelf life and tailored delivery schedules have halved basil waste, reducing storage needs  and spoilage.

Cost Efficiency

While the initial price of local basil was higher, reduced waste and the rising costs of imported alternatives have balanced the financial equation.

FUTURE PLANS

Pizza Pilgrims is exploring additional opportunities to integrate local and sustainable ingredients into their menu.  

With plans to further reduce Scope 3 emissions and enhance circular economy initiatives, the group is poised to continue leading the way in sustainable hospitality.

We joined the Zero Carbon Forum because we recognised that we couldn’t realise our ambitions, alone. The benefits of collaboration mean that we can learn from the very best in our industry and maintain a high pace of action as we work to decarbonise our operations and supply chain.

Thom Elliot,
Co-founder, Pizza Pilgrims

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