Pizza restaurant chain Papa Johns has announced the closure of 43 underperforming restaurants in the UK by mid-May 2024 to reduce operational losses.

The decision was made following a comprehensive business review. The closures will follow consultations with affected team members.

The pizza chain did not disclose the number of employees affected.

The restaurants involved include Barnsley, Coulsdon, Eastbourne, Lancaster, Middlesbrough, Penge, St Helens and Upminster.

The targeted venues are described by the company as “underperforming locations that are no longer financially viable”.

Papa Johns UK managing director Chris Phylactou said: “Our priority is our team members, who will be fully supported throughout this process. Our goal is to work with impacted team members and attempt to find redeployment opportunities where available.

“We understand the impact this will have on our team members and are committed to supporting them during this time. The closures allow the company to invest in other locations to support long-term growth."

Last month, the group announced what it described as “strategic closures to free up money for investment and improving profitability at its remaining UK sites”.