Domino’s Pizza Enterprises Ltd announced that Merrill Pereyra will take over as chief executive officer of its Australia and New Zealand business, effective January 23, 2026. Pereyra brings more than two decades of experience in the quick‑service restaurant industry, having led Domino’s Pizza Indonesia, managed franchise operations for Pizza Hut India, and driven growth at McDonald’s in the region.
Pereyra’s track record of scaling franchise networks and improving same‑store sales aligns closely with Domino’s “Hungry for More” strategy, which focuses on operational excellence, customer experience, and franchisee partnership. His appointment signals a renewed emphasis on disciplined execution and cost control, especially as the company seeks to accelerate digital and delivery capabilities in a highly competitive market.
The announcement was met with a positive market reaction, reflecting investor confidence in Pereyra’s ability to strengthen the franchise model and address recent performance challenges. Analysts noted that the move comes at a time when Domino’s has been working to reverse a decline in network sales and EBIT, and the leadership change is seen as a catalyst for renewed growth.
Domino’s Australia and New Zealand operations posted a 0.9% decline in network sales to $4.15 billion and a 4.6% drop in EBIT to $198.1 million for FY25, while the half‑year ended December 29, 2024, saw Group EBIT fall 6.7% to $100.6 million. The weaker results were driven by intensified competition from Pizza Hut, Papa John’s, and local chains, as well as cost inflation in supply‑chain inputs. Pereyra’s experience in managing franchise relationships and driving operational efficiencies is expected to help reverse these trends.
In addition to Pereyra’s appointment, Domino’s expanded the role of George Saoud to Group COO and CFO, underscoring the company’s focus on disciplined execution and financial stewardship. The leadership reshuffle comes as Domino’s continues its search for a permanent Group CEO, signaling a broader strategic reset aimed at sustaining profitability and expanding market share in the ANZ region.
Domino’s faces a competitive landscape that includes Pizza Hut’s historical dominance in New Zealand, Papa John’s presence in Australia, and emerging local players such as Guzman y Gomez. Delivery platforms like Uber Eats, Menulog, and Deliveroo also intensify the battle for customer acquisition. The appointment of Pereyra is intended to strengthen Domino’s franchisee relationships and leverage technology to maintain its position as the largest pizza chain in Australia while pursuing growth in New Zealand.
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