ISLAMABAD: Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif’s inauguration of a Pizza Hut outlet in Sialkot has triggered a backlash after the famous brand disowned the outlet in Sialkot Cantonment.
Khawaja Asif sparked controversy after he inaugurated a “Pizza Hut” outlet in Sialkot on January 20. However, a few hours after the inauguration, the global food chain disowned the branch. The incident quickly drew public attention and fueled debate over due diligence and brand authenticity.
Soon after the event, Pizza Hut Pakistan released an official statement clarifying that the Sialkot Cantt outlet had no affiliation with the company. As the news spread online, social media users shared images of the inauguration and questioned how such an incident could occur.
Pizza Hut Pakistan Declares Outlet Unauthorized
In its statement, Pizza Hut Pakistan confirmed that the Sialkot outlet was operating without authorization and was illegally using the brand’s name and visual identity. The company emphasized that the branch held no legal or operational link with Pizza Hut Pakistan or its parent company, Yum! Brands. Moreover, officials explained that the outlet failed to follow international standards, approved recipes, food safety measures, and operational procedures required for genuine franchises. Therefore, the company warned the public against assuming the outlet represented the official brand. This clarification aimed to protect consumers and maintain the credibility of the company’s trademark across the country.
Complaint Filed as Social Media Reacts Strongly
Pizza Hut Pakistan further announced that it had lodged a formal complaint with relevant authorities to stop the misuse of its trademark and branding. Meanwhile, images of Khawaja Asif cutting the ribbon at the inauguration circulated rapidly on social media platforms. Users responded with sarcastic remarks, memes, and critical comments, which intensified the controversy.
The incident has renewed discussions about the misuse of famous brand misuse and regulatory inaction. It also raises questions about the responsibility of political leaders to verify legitimacy before inauguration or endorsing businesses.
