Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif landed in controversy after inaugurating a Pizza Hut branded outlet in Sialkot Cantonment, which was later declared unauthorised by the company.
Photos and videos from the event showed Asif cutting the ribbon at a formal ceremony, accompanied by floral decorations and applause, as the outlet opened to the public. The images quickly circulated on social media, drawing attention to the high-profile inauguration.
Soon after, Pizza Hut Pakistan issued a public statement distancing itself from the establishment. The company said the outlet had no authorisation to operate under the Pizza Hut name.
“Pizza Hut Pakistan informs our valued customers that an unauthorised outlet falsely using the Pizza Hut name and branding has recently opened in Sialkot Cantonment,” the statement said.
The company clarified that the outlet has no association with Pizza Hut Pakistan or its parent company, Yum! Brands, and does not adhere to official recipes, quality controls, food safety standards or operational procedures.
Pizza Hut Pakistan further said it has filed a formal complaint with the relevant authorities to prevent the misuse of its trademark and to ensure appropriate action against the outlet.
There was no immediate public response from Khawaja Asif regarding the company’s statement or the circumstances surrounding the inauguration.
The incident has triggered discussion on social media about brand misuse, regulatory oversight, and the role of public officials in endorsing commercial establishments without verification.
