Popular Pizza Chain Set to Close Pennsylvania Stores in 2026

PHILADELPHIA, PA — The landscape of the American pizza industry is shifting once again this spring as Pizza Hut moves forward with a massive restructuring plan. Citing a need for a "strategic realignment," the iconic red-roofed chain is set to close approximately 250 underperforming locations across the United States during the first half of 2026, a move that will leave a noticeable gap in several Pennsylvania communities.

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The "Hut Forward" Initiative

The closures are part of a broader program dubbed "Hut Forward". Following a period of declining sales, the company is pivoting away from older legacy dine-in models. The strategy aims to modernize the brand while shedding units that no longer meet performance benchmarks.

While a definitive list of specific addresses has not yet been released to the public, the "strategic review" indicates that densely populated regions, including Bucks County and Montgomery County, are likely to see several storefronts close as the company consolidates its footprint.

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End of an Era for Local Pizzerias

While national chains are retrenching, the Pennsylvania pizza scene has also been rocked by the loss of two legendary local institutions.

Farewell to Two Gals in Wilkes-Barre

In a bittersweet farewell, Two Gals Pizza & Subs, a staple of the Wilkes-Barre community for 31 years, officially closed its doors on Super Bowl Sunday, February 8, 2026. The family-owned shop, known for its deep community roots, served its final slices to a line of loyal customers, marking the end of three decades of service.

Marra’s Pizzeria Says Goodbye to South Philly

In Philadelphia, the historic Marra’s Pizzeria on East Passyunk Avenue shuttered its windows recently. After nearly a century of operation, the family-run business has moved to a new location. Reports indicate the building will be replaced by a new concept, with the space expected to be transformed into a new restaurant later this year.

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A New Chapter: Openings and Expansions

Despite these high-profile departures, the "pizza belt" of Pennsylvania remains resilient with several new players entering the permanent brick-and-mortar space.

• Pittsburgh: The popular North Side popup Muns Pizza is transitioning into a permanent home. The shop is expected to fully open its doors in early 2026, bringing its unique style to a fixed location on the North Side.
• Manheim Township: The well-known Grotto Pizza is expanding its reach into Lancaster County. A new location in Manheim Township is currently under development and is slated to begin serving customers in Summer 2026.

As the industry recalibrates to meet changing consumer habits, Pennsylvania residents are seeing a trade-off: the loss of familiar national and historic names in exchange for a new wave of specialized, local craft pizzerias.

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