Published June 1, 2026, 12:31 p.m. EDT
Yum Brands reportedly close to potential deal to sell Pizza Hut to LongRange Capital Yum Brands reportedly in exclusive talks to sell Pizza Hut to private equity firm LongRange Capital, according to a report citing a source familiar with the matter.
The potential transaction would mark a significant shift for one of America’s most recognizable pizza chains and highlight growing consolidation in the restaurant industry as operators deal with the downturn. consumer demand and higher costs.
The talks could result in a deal within several weeks, although no agreement has been reached and there is no guarantee the negotiations will result in a transaction, Reuters reported on Friday.
PIZZA HUT FARM AROUND 250 LOCATIONS
Yum said last year that it was evaluating strategic alternatives for Pizza Hut, including a potential sale, as the chain worked to reverse a prolonged decline in sales.
A Pizza Hut restaurant in New York. (Michael Nagle/Bloomberg via Getty Images)
According to Reuters, Pizza Hut generated about 12% of Yum’s revenue in 2025 and has reported a decline in U.S. comparable sales for 10 consecutive quarters.
Reuters previously reported that LongRange Capital was among several companies interested in acquiring Pizza Hut. Apollo Global Management and Sycamore Partners are also reportedly exploring potential deals for the chain.
RED LOBSTER CLOSES TIMES SQUARE RESTAURANT AFTER MORE THAN 20 YEARS
Yum said last year that it was evaluating strategic alternatives for Pizza Hut. (Robert Gauthier/Los Angeles Times via Getty Images)
The announced discussions come as restaurant companies face weaker consumer demand and high operating costs, creating potential turnaround opportunities for the companies. investors focused on established brands.
Pizza Hut’s rival Papa John’s has also attracted acquisition interest. Reuters reported earlier this month that investment firm Irth Capital Management was working with the company’s largest U.S. franchisee on a proposal to take the pizza chain private.
Teleprinter Security Last Change Change % YUM YUM! MARQUES INC. 147.95 -2.08 -1.39% BAHAMA BREEZE CLOSES ALL ITS RESTAURANTS
Yum Brands shares rose about 3% in extended trading following reports of the talks. Shares are down more than 5% year to date.
FOX Business has reached out to Yum Brands and LongRange Capital for comment.
CLICK HERE TO GET FOX BUSINESS ON THE GO
The potential sale of Pizza Hut highlights how major restaurant brands are increasingly evaluating strategic transactions to improve performance and shareholder returns in a challenging operating environment.
