COLUMBUS, OH — The Buckeye State’s dining landscape is facing a major recalibration this March. Following a series of national strategic pivots toward digital-only footprints and high-efficiency models, three of the most recognizable brands in the country—Wendy’s, Pizza Hut, and Denny’s—are moving forward with significant closures across Ohio. From the brand’s historic roots in Columbus to the industrial corridors of the north, diners are seeing "Closed" signs at long-standing franchise favorites.
1. Wendy’s: "Project Fresh" Hits the Brand’s Home State
Wendy’s, which was founded in 1969 in Columbus and is currently headquartered in Dublin, is aggressively executing its "Project Fresh" initiative. The company has announced it will shutter between 298 and 358 restaurants nationwide during the first half of 2026.
- The Goal: Interim CEO Ken Cook stated that the closures focus on "consistently underperforming" locations—specifically older buildings that cannot accommodate the new "Global Next Gen" design.
- Ohio Impact: With over 400 locations in Ohio, the state is a primary focus for this fleet reduction. Older storefronts that have not been updated with the latest digital ordering technology are the primary targets for consolidation.
- The Strategy: The brand is moving away from limited-time price promotions in favor of a permanent "Biggie Deals" value menu. Savings from these closures are being reinvested into technology and new, high-efficiency buildings that prioritize mobile ordering and drive-thru speed.
2. Pizza Hut: The "Hut Forward" Consolidation
The "red roof" era is continuing to contract in Ohio as parent company Yum! Brands executes its "Hut Forward" strategy. Nationwide, the brand is closing 250 stores in the first half of 2026—representing about 4% of its domestic system.
- Legacy Retrenchment: The closures target older dine-in restaurants that have high maintenance costs and declining sit-down traffic.
- The Shift to "Delco": Ohio is seeing a transition where these large, traditional restaurants are being replaced by smaller, kitchen-only "Delco" (Delivery/Carry-out) units.
- Strategic Review: Yum! Brands has confirmed that Pizza Hut is currently under a "thorough review of strategic options," which could include a potential total sale of the brand later this year.
3. Denny’s: Finalizing Portfolio Rationalization
Denny's, long a staple for late-night diners and travelers along the I-71 and I-75 corridors, is completing its plan to close roughly 150 underperforming locations by the end of spring 2026.
- Criteria for Closure: Denny's is targeting restaurants that have "outlived their trade area"—specifically legacy units in older commercial districts. Confirmed shutdowns in recent waves have included locations in Ashland (U.S. State Route 250) and Ontario (N. Lexington Springmill Road).
- The Turnaround: Following a major private equity buyout of the brand for $620 million finalized earlier this year, the new owners are focused on efficiency. The company has funneled significant investment into upgrading the kitchens and menus of its surviving restaurants, aiming for a return to net growth by late 2026.
Local Spotlight: Columbus and Beyond
Beyond the national giants, Ohio is seeing significant shifts in local favorites this spring:
- Skillet (German Village): In a bittersweet announcement on February 17, 2026, the beloved Columbus brunch spot Skillet abruptly closed its doors after 17 years. While the physical restaurant is gone, the owners plan to continue selling their branded retail products online.
- Troy Chick-fil-A: Residents in Troy should note that the local Chick-fil-A will temporarily close on March 1, 2026, for a major expansion and remodel.
- Value City Furniture: While not a restaurant, the Columbus-based retailer is currently liquidating all locations with plans to close every store by the end of 2026.
What Ohio Diners Should Do
As these March 2026 closures take effect, customers are encouraged to use technology to stay informed:
- Check the App: For chains like Wendy's and Pizza Hut, the mobile app is the most reliable way to check if your local branch is still taking orders.
- Redeem Rewards: Loyalty points and gift cards should be used immediately, as they can sometimes become difficult to transfer once a specific franchise location shutters.
- Support Local: As national giants pull back, it's a critical time to visit independent Ohio diners and pizzerias that continue to serve as community anchors.
Pizza Hut closing hundreds of locations in 2026
This video provides a deep dive into the national "Hut Forward" strategy and why parent company Yum! Brands is shuttering 250 locations across the country, including those in Ohio, during the first half of 2026.
