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A chief executive of the UK's Domino's Pizza chain who indicated the United Kingdom might have hit maximum pizza demand while expanding the franchise into fried chicken has been replaced after tensions with its governing body.

Executive Change

The former CEO is departing after just two years in the top role, and will be replaced on an acting basis by the organization's chief operating officer, Frampton, while the pizza giant seeks a long-term chief.

The outgoing executive, who worked for Domino's for a substantial period, had attempted to pivot the UK's biggest pizza food delivery firm towards chicken offerings, commenting earlier this month there was not “massive growth” left in the British pizza industry. He observed poultry was the most rapidly expanding menu item in the globe.

Governance Friction

Reports indicate that there was disagreement between the CEO and the board over his approach and direction, although the company's release said he was departing “through mutual consent”.

New Product Launch

In September, Domino's unveiled its poultry product line – which the former chief called a “bold new chapter” for the group – and is piloting it in over 200 locations in the North West region and Northern Ireland.

While the business is still intending to launch it across its extensive network next year as scheduled, it considers fried chicken as a supplement for its main pizza offerings.

Board Comment

Bull, the Domino's chairman, stated: “We are confident that there are a series of prospects to drive further growth and performance improvement in Domino's core business. We are prioritizing identifying the ideal CEO to direct the disciplined execution of that growth strategy.”

Market Difficulties

Earlier this month, Domino's, which has a substantial customer base in the UK and Ireland, said sales dipped by one and a half percent in the third quarter. In the summer, it cautioned that the quick-service industry had “intensified” as it blamed weaker consumer confidence in the run-up to the government announcement and rising wage costs for disappointing revenue and a 15 percent decline in interim earnings.

Competitors are also facing challenges. Another major chain revealed the closing of multiple locations a last month, after the business behind its outlets faced financial collapse.

Wellness Efforts

Adapting to market shifts towards healthier eating, the company has introduced light options, such as its Thin & Crispy selection of pizzas below 400 kcals as well as plant-based and gluten-free options. A large pepperoni pizza has over 2,300 kcal. A big margherita has 2,171 kcal, while a individual has 909 kcal.

Interim Management

Frampton has been with Domino's since 2021, and was formerly with the gaming group William Hill. It is understood that she prefers not to assume the top job on a full-time basis.

Frampton stated: “The company has a several current growth and performance initiatives that we will be concentrating on executing at pace.”

She said these involved further work on the organization's supply chain and menu innovation, and its rewards program.

Domino's is also in need of a full-time CFO until 16 March, when Andy Andrea starts from the Irish cider and beer maker C&C Group. For now, Richard Snow is acting financial officer.