Pizza Hut is set to close approximately 250 of its locations across the United States as part of a strategic review initiated by its parent company, Yum! Brands. This closure of “underperforming” stores, which represents about 3% of Pizza Hut’s U.S. presence, was announced during Yum! Brands’ earnings call. Although a specific list of locations closing has not been provided, the decision reflects ongoing challenges faced by the brand.
In a statement, CEO Chris Turner noted the difficulties Pizza Hut has encountered in adapting to changing consumer preferences, which have shifted significantly toward fast pickup and delivery services. Turner highlighted the need for decisive action to help realize the brand’s full potential, which may involve exploring options outside Yum! Brands.
This review follows a series of struggles for Pizza Hut, including a previous statement in November indicating that the company was evaluating various strategic options, including a possible sale. Yum! Brands anticipates completing this review by the end of 2026.
Currently, Pizza Hut operates nearly 20,000 restaurants worldwide but has faced declining sales in the U.S. market, which dropped by 7% during the first nine months of 2025. In contrast, international sales rose by 2% in the same period.
The chain has a rich history, founded in 1958 when two brothers opened a small pizza shop in Wichita, Kansas. Over the years, Pizza Hut became renowned for its dining experience, but the rise of competitors like Domino’s, which has achieved success through an emphasis on delivery and carryout, has impacted its market position. Today, Pizza Hut commands 15.5% of U.S. pizza chain sales, a decline from 19.4% in 2019.
As it moves forward, Pizza Hut faces the critical task of reinventing itself in a competitive landscape that has evolved rapidly in recent years. The brand’s storied past and iconic presence in the pizza market provide a foundation to build upon, and the coming years will be pivotal in determining its future direction.