Kentwood, Michigan, January 21, 2026
Buddy’s Pizza, known for its Detroit-style pizza, has closed its final West Michigan location in Kentwood. This decision comes after challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic and inflation led to closures at other branches. Buddy’s Pizza will now focus its efforts in the Metro Detroit area, continuing to operate 19 locations. The closure marks the end of its West Michigan presence, bringing closure to a restaurant that opened in 2019 and served the local community.
Kentwood, Michigan – Buddy’s Pizza Closes Last West Michigan Location
Buddy’s Pizza, the Detroit-based chain recognized for its Detroit-style pizza, announced the closure of its last West Michigan location in Kentwood, effective at the end of service on Friday, January 23, 2026. This closure brings an end to Buddy’s Pizza’s footprint in West Michigan, where the Kentwood site debuted in April 2019. The decision to cease operations follows earlier closures at the Portage and Walker locations in 2024 and 2025, respectively. The company cited several challenges, including the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, inflation in food and operating supplies, and persistent staffing shortages. However, Buddy’s Pizza is committed to supporting its employees during this transition. With this closure, the chain will focus its operations in the Metro Detroit area, maintaining 19 locations to serve the community.
Background on Buddy’s Pizza
Founded in 1946, Buddy’s Pizza is often credited with inventing the iconic Detroit-style pizza, which has become a beloved culinary staple. Over the years, the chain expanded to include 23 restaurants across Michigan, offering a diverse menu that features sandwiches, soups, pastas, salads, and signature beers. Despite its growth and successful brand recognition, the company faced significant challenges in recent times, notably due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and escalating operational costs, leading to its decision to close locations outside the Metro Detroit area.
Impact on the Community
The closure of the Kentwood restaurant signifies a notable moment for Buddy’s Pizza and the West Michigan community. The company expressed gratitude for the support it received during its operation, highlighting the cherished memories shared with patrons over the years. As Buddy’s Pizza encourages its loyal customers to explore other locations in the Metro Detroit area, the space on 28th Street, which was previously occupied by Carrabba’s Italian Grill, awaits its next tenant, with the area continuing to see a mix of new chains and restaurants making their mark.
Business Resilience in the Face of Challenges
The challenges faced by Buddy’s Pizza exemplify broader trends impacting the restaurant and hospitality industry, particularly in regions grappling with workforce shortages and inflation. Local entrepreneurs are showing resilience, adapting their offerings and strategies to meet consumer demand while navigating the difficulties posed by increasing costs. The perseverance of businesses like Buddy’s Pizza underscores the importance of community support and the potential benefits of streamlining regulations to facilitate more robust economic growth.
Future Prospects
While the closure of the Kentwood location marks a significant milestone, Buddy’s Pizza continues to thrive in the Metro Detroit area, with an established customer base eager for its signature offerings. The focus on a concentrated territorial operational strategy allows Buddy’s to enhance quality control and customer experience, further solidifying its reputation as a premier provider of Detroit-style pizza. As Michigan entrepreneurs adapt to changing markets, the lessons learned from both successes and setbacks will ideally contribute to a more resilient and vibrant business landscape.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
When is Buddy’s Pizza closing its Kentwood location?
Buddy’s Pizza will close its Kentwood location at the end of service on Friday, January 23, 2026.
Why is Buddy’s Pizza closing its Kentwood location?
The closure is due to challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic, inflationary increases in food and operating supplies, and staffing shortages.
Will Buddy’s Pizza continue to operate in Michigan?
Yes, Buddy’s Pizza will continue to operate exclusively in the Metro Detroit area, with 19 locations serving the community.
What other locations has Buddy’s Pizza closed recently?
Buddy’s Pizza has also closed its Portage location in 2024 and its Walker location in 2025.
What is Buddy’s Pizza known for?
Buddy’s Pizza is credited with creating the iconic Detroit-style pizza and offers a variety of menu items including sandwiches, soups, pastas, salads, and signature beers.
Key Features of Buddy’s Pizza
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Founding Year | 1946 |
| Signature Dish | Detroit-style pizza |
| Number of Locations | 23 across Michigan |
| Menu Offerings | Sandwiches, soups, pastas, salads, signature beers |
| Recent Closures | Portage (2024), Walker (2025), Kentwood (January 2026) |
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Author: STAFF HERE DETROITMI WRITER
DETROIT STAFF WRITER The DETROIT STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREDetroitMI.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Detroit, Wayne County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Movement Electronic Music Festival, Detroit Grand Prix, and America's Thanksgiving Parade. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Detroit Regional Chamber and Focus HOPE, plus leading businesses in automotive and healthcare that power the local economy such as General Motors, Ford Motor Company, and Henry Ford Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREGrandRapids.com, HERENorthville.com, HERENovi.com, and HEREPlymouth.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Michigan's dynamic landscape.
