In a notable move attributed to operational challenges and changing market dynamics, Pizza Hut has announced plans to close approximately 250 of its U.S. restaurants by mid-2026. This decision comes at a critical juncture as Yum Brands, the Louisville-headquartered parent company, is engaged in a comprehensive review of strategic options for the pizza chain, including the possibility of divestiture.
Currently operating more than 6,000 U.S. locations, Pizza Hut has encountered headwinds domestically, with its same-store sales falling by 5% during the previous year. This comparative decline reflects sustained pressures caused by outdated store environments and intensified rivalry within the pizza sector. By contrast, Domino’s, the leading global pizza chain, experienced a 2.7% rise in same-store sales across its U.S. outlets over the first three quarters of the past year, underscoring the competitive strain facing Pizza Hut.
On the international front, Pizza Hut’s performance demonstrated relative resilience. Yum Brands reported a 1% increase in same-store sales outside the United States, fueled by growth in key regions such as Asia, the Middle East, and Latin America. Notably, China stands as Pizza Hut’s second-most significant market beyond the U.S. borders, representing 19% of the company’s revenue.
Amid these developments, Yum Brands Chief Executive Officer Chris Turner affirmed that the company intends to finalize its strategic review concerning Pizza Hut by the end of this year. Nonetheless, Turner refrained from elaborating on any forthcoming decisions or timelines linked to the review process.
Looking at the global footprint, Pizza Hut’s total worldwide store count stood at 19,974 at the conclusion of 2025, marking a decrease of 251 locations compared to the year prior. Despite openings of nearly 1,200 new stores spanning 65 countries within the previous year, the number of closures exceeded those additions, resulting in an overall net decrease. Yum Brands has conveyed intentions to continue expanding Pizza Hut’s global presence during 2026, though specific plans or markets were not detailed.
Tracing its origins back to 1958 in Wichita, Kansas, Pizza Hut has traversed significant corporate transformations. After being acquired by PepsiCo in 1977, the restaurant business was spun off in 1997 to form what is today Yum Brands. This conglomerate owns a portfolio of restaurant brands including KFC, Taco Bell, and Habit Burger & Grill, alongside Pizza Hut.