Pizza Hut is closing 29 restaurants with 450 jobs at risk - here's why

Pizza Hut has announced it is closing 29 of its 244 UK restaurants.

The firm is currently in the process of a company voluntary arrangement (CVA) restructuring deal, due to experiencing “significant disruption” caused by the pandemic.

A spokesperson for Pizza Hut told the Evening Standard that the company had made the decision as “sales are not expected to fully bounce back until well into 2021” despite the reopening of sites.

‘Aim to protect 5,000 jobs’

The company explained that the aim of the closures is to protect 5,000 jobs still active across remaining restaurants, and to ensure the survival of the business going forward.

A spokesperson for Pizza Hut Restaurants said, "We are committed to doing the right thing, and in order to secure as many jobs as possible and continue serving our communities, we are working to reach an agreement with our creditors.

"While we are likely to see 29 Hut closures and 450 job losses, any measures we take aim to protect about 5,000 jobs at our remaining 215 restaurants, as well as the longevity of the business.

"We understand this is a difficult time for everyone involved.

“We appreciate the support of our business partners and are doing everything we can to help our team members during this process, including speaking with those affected by the consultation."

Which sites are expected to close?