Two major pizza chains planning over 500 closures; California locations could be affected 

Hundreds of pizza restaurants are expected to disappear across North America over the next two years as two of the industry’s biggest brands work to improve profitability. While neither company has released a list of affected California locations, the state’s large restaurant footprint means many customers are watching closely for potential impacts.

Pizza Hut targeting 250 closures by mid-2026

Pizza Hut’s parent company, Yum! Brands, announced plans to close approximately 250 underperforming U.S. restaurants during the first half of 2026. The closures are part of the company’s “Hut Forward” strategy, a broader effort to modernize the chain through technology upgrades, marketing investments, and revised franchise agreements. 

Company leaders say the review could reshape the brand’s future as Pizza Hut works to address declining sales and increased competition in the pizza category.

So far, Pizza Hut has not identified which locations will be affected, leaving California customers uncertain about whether local restaurants could be impacted. The chain operates hundreds of locations throughout the state.

Papa Johns plans 300 closures through 2027

Just weeks after Pizza Hut’s announcement, Papa Johns revealed plans to close approximately 300 underperforming restaurants across North America by the end of 2027. Company executives said roughly 200 of those closures are expected to occur during 2026, with the remaining locations closing the following year.

According to the company, many of the targeted restaurants are older franchise-operated stores that generate relatively low sales or are located near other Papa Johns locations that can absorb customer demand. Specific California restaurants have not been identified.

What California customers should watch for

Neither chain has announced California-specific closure lists, but both companies are expected to evaluate stores based on sales performance and long-term viability. As closure plans unfold throughout 2026 and 2027, California communities could see some aging locations disappear while newer and higher-performing restaurants remain open.

Links on this page may be affiliate links, for which the site earns a small commission, but the price for you is the same