Papa John’s to Close 43 UK Restaurants Due to Underperformance

Popular pizza chain Papa Johns has announced plans to shut down 43 of its outlets in the UK due to financial underperformance.

The decision comes after a thorough review identified these locations as no longer financially viable.

The UK managing director, Chris Phylactou, emphasized that the closure process would prioritize supporting impacted team members and exploring redeployment opportunities where feasible.

Locations that are set to close span across various regions in England, including Harrogate in North Yorkshire and St Helens in Merseyside, among others.

Consultancy firm PwC highlighted the booming trend in the takeaway sector, attributing its success to increasing consumer demand and affordability, despite rising competition.

Papa Johns stated its intention to focus on strategic closures in order to redirect investment and enhance profitability at its remaining UK sites.

The company plans to expand into non-traditional outlets and has hinted at upcoming collaborations with major retail partners.

Revolution Bars, a separate entity, is considering selling all or part of its group following trading challenges, indicative of broader struggles in the hospitality industry.

Data from the Local Data Company revealed a net decrease in retail outlets across the UK last year, with notable closures from well-known brands like Wilko and The Body Shop.