Pakistan Defence Minister Khawaja Asif Opens Fake Pizza Hut Outlet in Sialkot

Islamabad: Pakistan Defense Minister Khawaja Asif inaugurated a pizza restaurant in Sialkot on Tuesday. The event was held in a completely formal manner. A ribbon was cut, photographs were taken, and it was announced as the new branch of the famous international brand Pizza Hut. But after a few hours the matter turned upside down when Pizza Hut Pakistan made it clear that it has no relation with that shop. After this the inauguration became a subject of mockery and criticism on social media.

What did Pizza Hut say?

The company had issued a statement saying that this outlet opened in Sialkot Cantt area, is fake. Pizza Hut Pakistan had said that the shop had used their name and logo without permission. The company warned customers not to mistake it for the real Pizza Hut.

Why was it considered wrong and illegal?

Pizza Hut Pakistan had said that this restaurant has no connection with either their company or their international parent company Yum Brands. He had also said that the rules related to his prescribed methods, recipes, and quality of food were not being followed there.

Did the company file a complaint?

The company had said that it has contacted government departments in this matter and lodged a formal complaint. He said that misuse of his trademark should be stopped and action should be taken against this outlet.

Why were questions raised on the inauguration of the minister?

When it became clear that the shop was not the original Pizza Hut, photos of Khawaja Asif's inauguration quickly spread on social media. People raised questions as to how a senior minister inaugurated a private shop without checking. Many users called it carelessness, while many also made funny posts and memes tauntingly.

How many branches of the original Pizza Hut were there?

According to Pizza Hut Pakistan, there were a total of 16 authorized outlets in the country at that time. Of these, 14 were in Lahore and two in Islamabad. This shop in Sialkot was not included in the official list. The company had asked people to check the information from their website or official sources before visiting any branch.