Newport’s Pizza Hut Saved As Chain Faces Fresh Wave Of Closures Across The UK

The Isle of Wight’s only Pizza Hut will remain open despite the restaurant chain’s UK operator entering administration this week.

There had been concern for the future of the Newport branch, located at Coppins Bridge, after DC London Pie Limited — the company running Pizza Hut’s UK dine-in restaurants — appointed administrators from FTI Consulting on Monday.

However, it has now been confirmed that the Island’s restaurant is among 64 sites saved nationwide after Yum! Brands, Pizza Hut’s global parent company, stepped in to rescue part of the business in a “pre-pack” deal.

The move has secured 1,277 jobs, including those at the Newport branch, which first opened its doors in August 2000.

While the Isle of Wight restaurant has been saved, 68 Pizza Hut restaurants and 11 delivery outlets across the UK are set to close permanently, putting around 1,200 staff at risk of redundancy.

Nicolas Burquier, Managing Director of Pizza Hut Europe and Canada, described the deal as a “targeted acquisition” aimed at protecting jobs and ensuring continuity at the remaining restaurants.

“Our immediate priority is operational continuity at the acquired locations and supporting colleagues through the transition,” he said.

Administrators said the UK business had faced “challenging trading conditions” and rising costs, with cashflow pressures linked to tax-related obligations.

The rescue deal means that while many Pizza Hut sites will close in the coming weeks, Newport’s family-friendly restaurant will continue trading as normal, bringing some festive relief for local staff and diners alike.