Papa Johns to close 43 sites amid review of the business

Pizza chain Papa Johns is to close 43 UK restaurants and invest in developing new types of stores following a review of the business.

The takeaway chain said the “underperforming” sites would shut by mid-May following a consultation with team members.

It has not confirmed how many staff will be impacted by the closures.

Papa Johns operates over 5,900 sites worldwide and 450 in the UK, which is its second-largest market after the US.

Earlier this month the chain said the sites signposted for closure had accounted for two thirds of its operating losses in the fourth quarter of 2023.

Chris Phylactou, managing director at Papa Johns UK, said: “Our priority is our team members, who will be fully supported throughout this process.

“Our goal is to work with impacted team members and attempt to find redeployment opportunities where available.

“We understand the impact this will have on our team members and are committed to supporting them during this time.”

He added that the closures would allow the company to invest in other locations to support “long-term growth”.

Papa Johns plans to overhal its UK menu to offer fresher ingredients, new products, and value offerings.

The company said it would look to open sites that were different to its traditional stores, with large retail partners set to be announced in coming months. Papa Johns is already present in holiday parks and attractions in the UK.

The full list of proposed UK corporate store closures:

1. Barnsley
2. Bebington
3. Bexhill
4. Billericay
5. Bromley
6. Coulsdon
7. Cricklewood
8. Darlington
9. Doncaster
10. Durham
11. East Dulwich
12. East Grinstead
13. Eastbourne
14. Hailsham
15. Harringay
16. Harrogate
17. Hendon
18. Horsham
19. Lancaster
20. Leeds - Meanwood
21. Liverpool – West Derby
22. Middlesbrough
23. Mottingham
24. Northwood Hills
25. Peacehaven
26. Peckham
27. Penge
28. Putney
29. Redhill
30. Rochdale
31. Rotherham
32. Ruislip
33. Runcorn
34. Scunthorpe
35. Sittingbourne
36. Southport
37. St Helens
38. Stoke Newington
39. Tunbridge
40. Upminster
41. Watford St Albans
42. Whitton
43. Wimbledon