1,100 jobs at risk as 67 outlets to close

PIZZA Express has announced proposals to close around 67 of its sites, putting up to 1,100 jobs at risk.

The restaurant chain is planning to launch a company voluntary arrangement (CVA) in the “near future” amid moves to push down its rents as it works through a “significantly more challenging environment” during the coronavirus pandemic.

The firm said the outcome has “yet to be decided” but it may end in the closure of around 15% of its 449 restaurants in the UK, affecting more than a thousand members of staff.

It is not yet known which restaurants have been earmarked for closure in the plans.

Pizza Express also said it had put itself up for sale after bringing in experts.

The sale will be run independently of its other plans and was started yesterday, August 4, Pizza Express revealed.

Separately, it announced plans to sell its business in mainland China and has brought in restructuring experts to help deal with its £735m debts.

UK and Ireland managing director Zoe Bowley said: “While the financial restructuring is a positive step forward, at the same time we have had to make some really tough decisions.

“As a result, it is with a heavy heart that we expect to permanently close a proportion of our restaurants, losing valued team members in the process.

“This is incredibly sad for our Pizza Express family and we will do everything we can to support our teams at this time.

“As we continue to reopen our restaurants for dine-in and delivery, we will successfully navigate the extended period of social distancing expected in the months ahead and, in so doing, protect 9,000 jobs.

“The initial signs from the restaurants that have been reopened have been very encouraging and we hope that our loyal customers continue to support us now more than ever.”