The pizza chain said half of its own leadership roles come from countries such as Estonia, Portugal and Romania, all of whom will be affected by the Conservatives’ plans to slash immigration to the “tens of thousands” following the EU divorce.

Simon Wallis, the group’s chief operating officer, told the Press Association: “We need to properly consider how we’re going to supply our economy with the legions of team leaders who keep the tills ringing, the wheels turning and the pizzas coming.”

Domino’s plans to open 600 more stores in the next few years and will need more than 21,000 staff, something it fears will be made even more difficult by a fall in net migration. 

The company employs around 35,000 staff – not all seasonal and casual workers – at its 1,000 stores but has struggled recently to recruit young British staff.

The British Hospitality Association said in April that the UK sector needed around 62,000 EU migrants every year if it is to maintain the status quo and drive growth.

• Comment below on this story. You can also tweet us to tell us your thoughts or share this story with a friend. Our editorial email is [email protected]