Pizza Hut, one of the most recognisable brands, is now set for a major ownership change. Yum! Brands has announced plans to sell Pizza Hut in a deal worth $2.7 billion, marking the end of an era for the restaurant chain that has been part of its portfolio for nw nearly three decades.Â
The move comes after Pizza Hut faced growing competition, declining sales in key markets, and changing consumer preferences. The transaction will split the business between 2 buyers and is expected to reshape the future of the iconic pizza chain.
Pizza Hut News: Pizza Hut Chain Will Be Sold for $2.7 Billion
Yum! Brands has confirmed that Pizza Hut will be sold in a transaction valued at approximately $2.7 billion.
Under the agreement, private equity firm LongRange Capital will acquire Pizza Hut’s operations outside mainland China for $1.5 billion, while Yum China Holdings will purchase the mainland China business for $1.2 billion. The deal represents one of the biggest restaurant industry transactions of 2026.
The company said the sale will allow Pizza Hut to operate under owners with significant experience in the restaurant sector, while enabling Yum! Brands to focus on its remaining businesses.
Pizza Hut News: Who is Pizza Hut After the $2.7 Billion Deal?
The Pizza Hut business will be divided between two buyers.
LongRange Capital will take control of Pizza Hut’s operations across most international markets, including the United States and several other countries where the brand currently operates.
Meanwhile, Yum China Holdings will acquire Pizza Hut’s mainland China business, which remains one of the brand’s largest markets globally.
Pizza Hut News:Â Why is Yum! Brands Selling Pizza Hut?
Yum! Brands first revealed in late 2025 that it was exploring strategic options for Pizza Hut following a prolonged period of weak performance. The company has faced declining sales in several important markets, particularly in the United States, where Pizza Hut generates a significant share of its global revenue.
Executives believe the sale will allow the brand to pursue a fresh growth strategy under new ownership while enabling Yum! Brands to concentrate resources on KFC and Taco Bell.
What Happened to Pizza Hut UK?
Pizza Hut’s UK operations faced significant challenges over the past year. In 2025, DC London Pie, the company operating Pizza Hut’s dine-in restaurants in the United Kingdom, entered administration. The collapse initially threatened more than 1,200 jobs and led to the closure of dozens of restaurants.
However, a rescue deal later saved approximately 64 locations. Yum! Brands subsequently acquired the UK operations in an effort to stabilize the business before moving ahead with its broader restructuring plans.
Pizza Hut China Business Sold Separately
Unlike the rest of Pizza Hut’s global operations, the China business will be sold directly to Yum China Holdings.
The company already operates several major restaurant brands across China and has extensive experience managing Pizza Hut locations in the country. Analysts view the separate transaction as a strategic move that allows Pizza Hut’s China operations to remain under an experienced local operator familiar with the market.
Pizza Hut News:Â Who Will Be the New Owner of the Pizza Hut Chain?
Following the completion of the transaction, ownership of Pizza Hut will be split. LongRange Capital will become the primary owner of Pizza Hut’s global operations outside mainland China, while Yum China Holdings will oversee the brand’s China business.
The arrangement is expected to allow each owner to focus on the specific needs of their respective markets and pursue expansion opportunities more effectively.
What Challenges Has Pizza Hut Been Facing?
Pizza Hut has struggled to keep pace with competitors in recent years. Major rivals such as Domino’s, Papa John’s, and Little Caesars have strengthened their positions by offering aggressive discounts, expanding delivery options, and adapting more quickly to changing customer preferences.
The rise of food delivery platforms has also increased competition by giving consumers access to a wider range of restaurant choices. At the same time, regional pizza chains have captured market share by responding more rapidly to local trends and demand.
These factors contributed to declining performance and increased pressure on the brand.
Chris Turner on the Pizza Hut Sale
Yum! Brands Chief Executive Officer Chris Turner praised Pizza Hut’s legacy while explaining the company’s decision.
“Under LongRange and Yum China, Pizza Hut will be well-positioned for future growth with ownership that brings deep expertise in the restaurant industry.”
Turner also added, “Pizza Hut is one of the most iconic restaurant brands in the world, and we are proud of the important role it has played in Yum!’s history.”
When Will the Pizza Hut Sale Be Completed?
The transactions involving LongRange Capital and Yum China are expected to close during the third quarter of 2026.
Both deals remain subject to regulatory approvals and customary closing conditions. Once completed, Pizza Hut will officially begin operating under its new ownership structure.
Pizza Hut News: What’s Next?
The new owners are expected to focus on revitalizing Pizza Hut’s growth strategy and improving performance in highly competitive markets.
Industry observers will closely watch whether LongRange Capital and Yum China can help the brand regain momentum through menu innovation, digital expansion, delivery improvements, and operational changes.
While Pizza Hut remains one of the most recognized names in the global restaurant industry, its future success will depend on how effectively the new owners respond to changing consumer habits and intensifying competition in the pizza market.
