Pizza Hut UK announces closures amid growing boycott over 'Israeli' ties
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Pizza Hut UK is set to close 68 restaurants and 11 delivery sites, resulting in the loss of 1,210 jobs, after the company operating the chain, DC London Pie Limited, entered administration. FTI Consulting was appointed as administrator on Monday.
However, Yum! Brands, the global owner of Pizza Hut, has agreed to acquire 64 of the UK restaurants, preserving employee jobs.
A spokesperson for Pizza Hut UK said, “We are pleased to secure the continuation of 64 sites to safeguard our guest experience and protect the associated jobs.”
Nicolas Burquier, managing director for Pizza Hut Europe and Canada, added, “This targeted acquisition aims to safeguard our guest experience and protect jobs where possible. Our immediate priority is operational continuity at the acquired locations and supporting colleagues through the transition.”
The closures follow mounting customer boycotts after it emerged that the chain had provided food to soldiers on 'Israeli' military installations during the war in Gaza. Many UK customers reportedly stopped visiting Pizza Hut in protest, significantly impacting sales.
Analysts say the boycott linked to the chain’s ties to 'Israeli' military operations has accelerated the decline in customer traffic.
