Popular Pizza Chain Set to Close Delaware Stores in 2026

DELAWARE — The "red roofs" are becoming a rarer sight in the First State as Pizza Hut moves forward with a significant contraction of its physical footprint. Following a nationwide announcement in early February 2026, several underperforming locations across Delaware have been identified for closure as part of a sweeping "strategic realignment" by parent company Yum! Brands.

---

Delaware Communities Impacted

While franchisees are finalizing the full list of 250 nationwide closures, local reports have identified several key Delaware markets where storefronts are expected to close by June 2026. The move primarily targets older, underperforming units that no longer align with the company's shift toward modern, delivery-focused models.

Identified Target Areas:

• Wilmington: Multiple locations in the greater Wilmington area are under review, particularly those with aging dine-in facilities.
• Bear: The location serving the Bear/Route 40 corridor has been flagged as part of the spring 2026 consolidation wave.
• Dover: At least one location in the state capital is slated for closure as the brand shifts resources to digital-first storefronts.
• Milford: Residents in the Milford area are bracing for the closure of their local branch as the company reduces its regional footprint.

---

The "Hut Forward" Strategy

The closures are the cornerstone of the "Hut Forward" program, an initiative to modernize the brand following a year of stagnant sales. While sister brands in the same portfolio saw growth in 2025, Pizza Hut’s domestic same-store sales experienced a decline in the final quarter of last year.

The restructuring focuses on several key objectives:

• Exiting Legacy Models: Shifting away from the traditional, large-format restaurants that require high overhead and maintenance.
• Digital Integration: Funneling savings into better app technology and smaller, delivery-and-carryout (Delco) units.
• Portfolio Optimization: Ensuring that every open location is meeting new, stricter profitability benchmarks.

---

What This Means for Local Fans

For many Delawareans, these closures mark the end of an era of family sit-down dinners and the classic restaurant experience. However, the company expects to resume store openings later in 2026, with these new locations likely smaller, kitchen-only units optimized for delivery apps rather than traditional dining rooms.

---

As the spring season progresses, customers in Bear, Dover, Milford, and Wilmington are encouraged to check the brand's mobile app for their local branch status and to find the nearest alternative location for future orders.

Delaware State