Papa John's International, Inc. is an American pizza delivery company headquartered in Louisville, Kentucky. Founded in 1984 by John Schnatter, the company has grown to become one of the largest pizza chains in the world, with over 5,000 restaurants in more than 40 countries.
In 2018, Schnatter resigned as CEO after making a racial slur during a conference call, and the company has been struggling financially ever since. In 2020, the company was acquired by a group of investors led by Christopher H. Nassetta, the CEO of Hilton Worldwide Holdings. The new owners have been working to turn the company around, and in 2021, Papa John's reported its first quarterly profit since 2019.
Despite its recent struggles, Papa John's remains a popular pizza chain, and it is likely to continue to be a major player in the pizza industry for many years to come.
Now that we know who owns Papa John's, let's take a closer look at the company's history, products, and marketing strategies.
who owns papa john's
Current owner: Christopher H. Nassetta-led investor group
- Founded: 1984
- Founder: John Schnatter
- Headquarters: Louisville, Kentucky
- # of restaurants: 5,000+
- Countries: 40+
- 2020 acquisition: $800 million
- 2021 quarterly profit: First since 2019
- Popular pizza chain
- Major player in pizza industry
- Future growth potential
Papa John's has faced challenges in recent years, but the new ownership group is working to turn the company around. With its strong brand recognition and loyal customer base, Papa John's has the potential to continue to be a major player in the pizza industry for many years to come.
Founded: 1984
Papa John's was founded in 1984 by John Schnatter, a young entrepreneur from Jeffersonville, Indiana. Schnatter started the company with just $600 and a used pizza oven in the back of his father's tavern.
- Humble beginnings:
Papa John's started out as a small, family-run business. Schnatter himself delivered pizzas to customers in his 1971 Camaro.
- Rapid growth:
Papa John's quickly gained popularity in the Louisville area, and Schnatter began to open new restaurants throughout the Midwest. By 1993, the company had 100 restaurants in operation.
- National expansion:
In 1995, Papa John's went public, and the company began to expand nationally. By the end of the 1990s, Papa John's had over 1,000 restaurants in operation.
- International expansion:
In the early 2000s, Papa John's began to expand internationally. Today, the company has over 5,000 restaurants in more than 40 countries.
Papa John's has come a long way since its humble beginnings in 1984. Today, it is one of the largest pizza chains in the world, and it continues to grow both domestically and internationally.
Founder: John Schnatter
John Schnatter is the founder of Papa John's Pizza. He was born in Jeffersonville, Indiana, in 1961. Schnatter started his first business, a pizza delivery service, at the age of 16. After graduating from high school, Schnatter attended Ball State University for two years before dropping out to focus on his business.
- Pizza passion:
Schnatter has always had a passion for pizza. He started making pizzas at a young age, and he even worked as a pizza delivery driver for a local pizza chain.
- Entrepreneur spirit:
Schnatter is a born entrepreneur. He started his first business at the age of 16, and he has never looked back. Schnatter is known for his risk-taking ability and his determination to succeed.
- Marketing genius:
Schnatter is also a marketing genius. He is credited with coming up with the Papa John's slogan, "Better Ingredients. Better Pizza." Schnatter has also been known to use controversial marketing tactics to get attention for his company.
- Controversial figure:
Schnatter is a controversial figure. He has been criticized for his business practices, his personal life, and his political views. In 2018, Schnatter resigned as CEO of Papa John's after making a racial slur during a conference call.
Despite the controversies, there is no doubt that John Schnatter is a successful entrepreneur. He founded Papa John's Pizza with just $600, and he grew it into one of the largest pizza chains in the world. Schnatter's story is an inspiration to anyone who wants to start their own business.
Headquarters: Louisville, Kentucky
Papa John's is headquartered in Louisville, Kentucky. The company has been headquartered in Louisville since it was founded in 1984. Papa John's has a long history in Louisville, and the city is home to many of the company's employees.
- Central location:
Louisville is a centrally located city in the United States, making it a convenient location for Papa John's to ship its products to its restaurants throughout the country.
- Strong community ties:
Papa John's has strong ties to the Louisville community. The company is involved in a number of local charities and organizations, and it is a major employer in the city.
- Access to talent:
Louisville is home to a number of universities and colleges, which gives Papa John's access to a pool of talented employees.
- Cost of living:
The cost of living in Louisville is relatively low, which helps Papa John's to keep its operating costs down.
Papa John's is proud to be headquartered in Louisville, Kentucky. The city has been a great home for the company, and it has played a key role in Papa John's success.
# of restaurants: 5,000+
Papa John's is one of the largest pizza chains in the world, with over 5,000 restaurants in more than 40 countries. The company has a strong presence in the United States, where it has over 3,400 restaurants. Papa John's also has a significant international presence, with restaurants in Canada, Mexico, the United Kingdom, China, and many other countries.
- Global reach:
Papa John's has a global reach, with restaurants in over 40 countries. This gives the company a large customer base and allows it to generate revenue from a variety of markets.
- Growth potential:
Papa John's still has significant growth potential, both domestically and internationally. The company is continuing to open new restaurants in the United States, and it is also expanding into new countries.
- Brand recognition:
Papa John's is a well-known and respected brand. The company's logo and slogan, "Better Ingredients. Better Pizza.", are instantly recognizable. This brand recognition helps Papa John's to attract customers and generate sales.
- Economies of scale:
Papa John's large size allows it to achieve economies of scale. This means that the company can purchase ingredients and supplies at a lower cost than smaller pizza chains. Papa John's can also spread its marketing and advertising costs over a larger number of restaurants, which helps to reduce its overall costs.
Papa John's strong brand recognition, global reach, and growth potential make it a major player in the pizza industry. The company is well-positioned to continue to grow in the years to come.
Countries: 40+
Papa John's has a global presence, with restaurants in over 40 countries. The company's largest international markets include Canada, Mexico, the United Kingdom, China, and India. Papa John's is also expanding into new markets, such as Vietnam, Indonesia, and Saudi Arabia.
- Global brand:
Papa John's is a global brand, and its pizza is enjoyed by people all over the world. The company's international expansion has helped to increase its brand awareness and generate new revenue streams.
- Growth potential:
Papa John's still has significant growth potential in international markets. The company is continuing to open new restaurants in existing markets, and it is also expanding into new countries. Papa John's is well-positioned to continue to grow its international business in the years to come.
- Local adaptation:
Papa John's adapts its menu and marketing to local tastes and preferences. This helps the company to appeal to customers in different countries and cultures. For example, Papa John's offers halal pizza in some Muslim-majority countries.
- Challenges:
Papa John's also faces some challenges in international markets. These challenges include competition from local pizza chains, cultural differences, and currency fluctuations.
Despite these challenges, Papa John's is committed to growing its international business. The company believes that there is a strong demand for its pizza in markets around the world.
2020 acquisition: $800 million
In 2020, Papa John's was acquired by a group of investors led by Christopher H. Nassetta, the CEO of Hilton Worldwide Holdings. The acquisition was valued at $800 million.
- Financial struggles:
Papa John's had been struggling financially in the years leading up to the acquisition. The company's sales had been declining, and it was facing increasing competition from other pizza chains.
- Change in leadership:
The acquisition led to a change in leadership at Papa John's. John Schnatter, the company's founder and former CEO, resigned in the wake of the acquisition. Christopher H. Nassetta became the new CEO of Papa John's.
- New ownership:
The new ownership group is committed to turning Papa John's around. The group has invested heavily in the company, and it has made a number of changes to improve Papa John's financial performance.
- Positive results:
The new ownership group's efforts are starting to pay off. In 2021, Papa John's reported its first quarterly profit since 2019. The company is also seeing an increase in sales.
The 2020 acquisition of Papa John's was a major turning point for the company. The new ownership group is committed to turning Papa John's around, and the company is starting to see positive results.
2021 quarterly profit: First since 2019
In 2021, Papa John's reported its first quarterly profit since 2019. This was a major milestone for the company, which had been struggling financially in recent years.
- New ownership:
The new ownership group, led by Christopher H. Nassetta, has been credited with turning Papa John's around. The new owners have invested heavily in the company, and they have made a number of changes to improve Papa John's financial performance.
- Improved operations:
Papa John's has made a number of operational changes to improve its profitability. These changes include reducing costs, improving efficiency, and increasing sales.
- New products:
Papa John's has also introduced a number of new products to boost sales. These products include new pizza flavors, sides, and desserts.
- Marketing efforts:
Papa John's has also stepped up its marketing efforts in recent years. The company has launched new advertising campaigns and it has increased its social media presence.
All of these factors have contributed to Papa John's turnaround. The company is now profitable again, and it is starting to see growth in sales. Papa John's is well-positioned to continue to grow in the years to come.
Popular pizza chain
Papa John's is a popular pizza chain with a loyal customer base. The company's pizza is known for its fresh ingredients and its delicious taste. Papa John's also offers a variety of other menu items, such as chicken wings, breadsticks, and desserts.
- Brand recognition:
Papa John's is a well-known and respected brand. The company's logo and slogan, "Better Ingredients. Better Pizza.", are instantly recognizable. This brand recognition helps Papa John's to attract customers and generate sales.
- Quality products:
Papa John's is known for its high-quality products. The company uses fresh ingredients and it makes its pizza dough fresh every day. Papa John's also offers a variety of specialty pizzas, such as the Garlic Parmesan Pizza and the BBQ Chicken Pizza.
- Convenience:
Papa John's is a convenient option for busy families and individuals. The company offers delivery and carryout, and it has a number of locations in convenient areas.
- Value for money:
Papa John's offers a good value for money. The company's pizzas are reasonably priced, and the company often offers discounts and promotions.
All of these factors contribute to Papa John's popularity. The company is a popular choice for pizza lovers of all ages.
Major player in pizza industry
Papa John's is a major player in the pizza industry. The company is the fourth-largest pizza chain in the United States, and it has over 5,000 restaurants in more than 40 countries.
- Market share:
Papa John's has a significant market share in the pizza industry. The company's sales are consistently higher than those of its competitors.
- Global reach:
Papa John's has a global reach, with restaurants in over 40 countries. This gives the company a large customer base and allows it to generate revenue from a variety of markets.
- Brand recognition:
Papa John's is a well-known and respected brand. The company's logo and slogan, "Better Ingredients. Better Pizza.", are instantly recognizable. This brand recognition helps Papa John's to attract customers and generate sales.
- Financial strength:
Papa John's is a financially strong company. The company has a strong balance sheet and it is generating positive cash flow. This financial strength allows Papa John's to invest in its business and to compete effectively in the pizza industry.
All of these factors contribute to Papa John's position as a major player in the pizza industry. The company is well-positioned to continue to grow in the years to come.
Future growth potential
Papa John's has significant future growth potential. The company is well-positioned to grow both domestically and internationally.
- Domestic growth:
Papa John's still has room to grow in the United States. The company is continuing to open new restaurants in existing markets, and it is also expanding into new markets. Papa John's is also investing in new products and marketing campaigns to attract new customers.
- International growth:
Papa John's has a significant international growth opportunity. The company has restaurants in over 40 countries, but there are still many untapped markets. Papa John's is continuing to expand into new countries, and it is also investing in its existing international markets.
- New products:
Papa John's is constantly innovating and developing new products. This helps to keep the company's menu fresh and exciting, and it also attracts new customers. Papa John's is also expanding its menu beyond pizza to include other items, such as chicken wings and breadsticks.
- Delivery and carryout:
Papa John's is a leader in the delivery and carryout pizza market. The company is investing in new technologies to improve its delivery and carryout service. Papa John's is also expanding its delivery area to reach more customers.
All of these factors contribute to Papa John's future growth potential. The company is well-positioned to continue to grow in the years to come.
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions about Papa John's:
Question 1: Who founded Papa John's?
Answer 1: Papa John's was founded by John Schnatter in 1984.
Question 2: Where is Papa John's headquartered?
Answer 2: Papa John's is headquartered in Louisville, Kentucky.
Question 3: How many Papa John's restaurants are there?
Answer 3: There are over 5,000 Papa John's restaurants in more than 40 countries.
Question 4: What is Papa John's slogan?
Answer 4: Papa John's slogan is "Better Ingredients. Better Pizza."
Question 5: Who owns Papa John's?
Answer 5: Papa John's is owned by a group of investors led by Christopher H. Nassetta, the CEO of Hilton Worldwide Holdings.
Question 6: Is Papa John's a publicly traded company?
Answer 6: Papa John's is no longer a publicly traded company. It was taken private in 2020 by the group of investors led by Christopher H. Nassetta.
Question 7: What is Papa John's future growth potential?
Answer 7: Papa John's has significant future growth potential, both domestically and internationally. The company is continuing to open new restaurants, develop new products, and invest in its delivery and carryout service.
Closing Paragraph for FAQ:
These are just a few of the most frequently asked questions about Papa John's. If you have any other questions, please visit the Papa John's website or contact the company directly.
Now that you know more about Papa John's, here are a few tips for getting the most out of your next Papa John's experience:
Tips
Here are a few tips for getting the most out of your next Papa John's experience:
Tip 1: Order online or through the Papa John's app.
This is the quickest and easiest way to order your pizza. You can also use the app to track your order and get exclusive deals.
Tip 2: Take advantage of Papa John's coupons and discounts.
Papa John's often offers coupons and discounts on its pizzas and other menu items. You can find these coupons in the newspaper, online, or on the Papa John's app.
Tip 3: Try Papa John's specialty pizzas.
In addition to its classic cheese and pepperoni pizzas, Papa John's offers a variety of specialty pizzas, such as the Garlic Parmesan Pizza, the BBQ Chicken Pizza, and the Meatball Pizza. These pizzas are made with fresh, high-quality ingredients and are sure to please everyone.
Tip 4: Don't forget the sides and desserts.
Papa John's offers a variety of sides and desserts to complement its pizzas. Some popular sides include chicken wings, breadsticks, and garlic knots. For dessert, you can choose from a variety of cakes, cookies, and brownies.
Closing Paragraph for Tips:
These are just a few tips for getting the most out of your next Papa John's experience. With its delicious pizzas, convenient ordering options, and great value for money, Papa John's is a great choice for pizza lovers of all ages.
Now that you know all about Papa John's, its history, its products, and its growth potential, you're ready to enjoy your next Papa John's pizza.
Conclusion
Papa John's is a leading pizza chain with a rich history and a strong future. The company was founded in 1984 by John Schnatter, and it has since grown to over 5,000 restaurants in more than 40 countries.
Papa John's is known for its delicious pizzas, its convenient ordering options, and its great value for money. The company is also committed to innovation, and it is constantly developing new products and flavors to keep its customers excited.
In recent years, Papa John's has faced some challenges, including a racial slur scandal involving its founder. However, the company has taken steps to address these challenges, and it is now back on track for growth.
With its strong brand recognition, its loyal customer base, and its significant growth potential, Papa John's is well-positioned to continue to be a major player in the pizza industry for many years to come.
Closing Message:
So next time you're craving a delicious pizza, be sure to give Papa John's a try. You won't be disappointed.