Chocolate Pizza Company

Presented by Solvay Bank

This feature of CEO Insights spotlights local companies that are “Economic Champions” because of their success in adding jobs; expanding their products or services; advancing diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives; gaining national recognition or contributing to the success of the region in special ways.

When Ryan Novak took over Chocolate Pizza Company (CPC) in 2010, the Central New York chocolatier was using an amount of chocolate per year equal to the weight of a Tyrannosaurus Rex to make its famous Chocolate Pizza® & Peanut Butter Wings® for its regional clientele. By 2023, CPC used a T-Rex weight’s worth of chocolate a month while shipping to all 50 states and 17 countries.

During this period of growth, CPC built a 10,000 square foot facility between Marcellus and Skaneateles on Route 175. It also expanded its warehouse and shipping area in 2020 as online sales exploded. Novak doubled CPC’s production space in 2024, by adding about another 4,000 square feet.

“We’re looking to integrate new packaging equipment and add additional tempering capacity that will give us greater production efficiencies,” Novak said.

CPC has seen growth in all segments of its business, including retail, online and corporate gifts, but particularly in wholesale opportunities. Several of the company’s signature products are sold now in more than 70 Byrne Dairy locations, in gift shops at John F. Kennedy International Airport, LaGuardia Airport, Newark Liberty International Airport and Syracuse Hancock International Airport, as well as Applegreen stores along the New York State Thruway.

The largest order the company has ever handled is 31,000 Chocolate Pizzas for a major retailer. Still, new opportunities are on the horizon.

“I have the best team around me who give the same amazing service whether the order is for thousands or to celebrate with family. Looking ahead, we’re excited about 2025 and beyond,” Novak said.

Learn more about Chocolate Pizza Company.