Pizza Hut Delivery to expand UK footprint following partnership with Christie & Co

The new appointment will see Pizza Hut acquire new locations through conversions

Pizza Hut Delivery has announced a partnership with specialist business property adviser Christie & Co, to expand its delivery and takeaway offering across the UK, Retail Times reports.

Christie & Co, offering services including brokerage, consultancy, and investment, will work with Pizza Hut to acquire new locations across the country, by converting existing operators to Pizza Hut Delivery franchisees.

Currently, Pizza Hut Delivery has over 600 sites throughout the UK; 380 of which offer delivery and takeaway only. Throughout the pandemic, the brand shared in the immense demand for delivery that the entire sector experienced; more than half a million more orders were made during lockdown than in the same period for 2019.

“Pizza Hut Delivery has been a beloved brand in communities across the UK for decades and we’re excited to build on this strength and continue expanding our reach in the UK,” said Neil Manhas, general manager UK at Pizza Hut Delivery.

“Pizza Hut Delivery was designated an essential service during lockdown and continued to operate, successfully feeding the nation during these difficult times and donating over 250,000 free meals to the NHS. We have always played a part in our local communities and we’re delighted to build on this as the demand for delivery services only increases.”

Through the partnership, the pizza franchise is initially seeking 125 new sites, with franchisees in the north east and south west of England being sought in particular.

“We are very excited to be working with Pizza Hut in the expansion of its delivery business,” said Simon Chaplin, senior director of Christie & Co. “We are using our industry knowledge to seek out ambitious entrepreneurs who wish to become part of the Pizza Hut Delivery brand by becoming regional franchisees through the conversion of their own stores.”