The Pizza Hut restaurant chain will close its doors in Panama said a statement by Franquicias Panameñas (Panamanian Franchises) delivered to the Panama Market Superintendency on December 26.

"The difficult decision is made after administrative considerations that seek to ensure and optimize its operations in the future," said Joshua Henríquez, general manager of Panamanian Franchises, justifying the cessation of operations.

He said that the company has as a priority the relocation or transition of its workers, as "part of its strategic plan to strengthen its other brands focused on an expansion and renovation plan for KFC and Dairy Queen restaurants nationwide."

The main activity of Franquicias Panameñas is the operation and management of fast-food restaurant chains under the international franchise scheme, dedicated to the sale of fried chicken, pizzas, and sandwiches, among others.

It operates KFC, Pizza Hut, and Dairy Queen. In December 2018, the Taco Bell brand ceased to operate.