Yum! Brands has announced the sale of its struggling Pizza Hut chain in two separate deals valued at a combined $2.7 billion. The transaction involves the sale of the chain's US operations and its international business to different buyers, according to a company statement released on June 16, 2026.
The sale comes after Yum! Brands revealed in February 2026 that it was considering divesting Pizza Hut, which has faced declining sales and increased competition. As part of the restructuring, the company plans to close approximately 250 underperforming Pizza Hut locations in the United States.
Pizza Hut, founded in 1958 in Wichita, Kansas, has been a cornerstone of Yum! Brands' portfolio alongside KFC and Taco Bell. However, the chain has struggled to adapt to changing consumer preferences and the rise of delivery-focused competitors like Domino's and Papa John's.
The deals are expected to close by the end of 2026, pending regulatory approvals. Yum! Brands will retain ownership of its other brands, including KFC and Taco Bell, which continue to perform well in the fast-food market.
