Reddit co-founder teases buying Pizza Hut as chain’s parent company explores sale

Yum Brands, the parent company of Pizza Hut, is considering its options for the future of the pizza chain, which could include selling the entire brand or just certain pieces of it.

The Wall Street Journal reports that the company has put a lot of money into trying to improve Pizza Hut, but thinks the chain might need additional investment from outside of its parent company, Yum, to truly thrive.

Pizza Hut is the second-biggest pizza company in the United States. Last year, its U.S. stores brought in about $5.6 billion in sales, with around 6,560 locations nationwide, as reported by Technomic.

The brand has approximately 20,000 stores worldwide. However, U.S. sales at stores open for at least a year have been declining for the past seven quarters, with another 5% drop reported for the period ending June 30th.

Domino’s sales rose by 6% this quarter, thanks to successful promotions and discounts. Pizza Hut has been trying to boost sales with new menu items, like Detroit-style pizza introduced in 2021 and pizza melts in 2022. The company has also seen several changes in its leadership team.

Reddit co-founder jokes about buying brand

Alexis Ohanian, one of the creators of Reddit, reacted to the news on X (formerly Twitter) by suggesting he might be interested in purchasing Pizza Hut, and playfully mentioned considering a bid.

“As a former Pizza Hut cook, I have the opportunity to do the funniest thing ever,” he said.

As a former Pizza Hut cook, I have the opportunity to do the funniest thing ever…

— Alexis Ohanian 🗽 (@alexisohanian) November 4, 2025

Alexis’s fans immediately responded to the suggestion, and most agreed on one thing: they’d love to see Pizza Hut return to its classic look, with red cups and an all-you-can-eat buffet.

One user suggested Pizza Hut should bring back its classic, retro look – including red cups and ashtrays – to enhance the dining experience.

Another said: “You must include the s-tier salad bar.”

It’s uncertain if Alexis will purchase the brand, as it depends on whether the current owner is willing to sell it.

If Pizza Hut were to be sold, it wouldn’t be the first brand Yum Brands has parted with – they previously sold Long John Silver’s in 2011.

Read More

2025-11-05 00:18