Founding Date:
Papa John’s, one of the leading pizza delivery and carryout chains in the world, was founded in 1984.
Founder:
The company was founded by John Schnatter, who aimed to create a pizza establishment focused on delivering high-quality ingredients and exceptional taste.
Location:
The first Papa John’s restaurant opened its doors in Jeffersonville, Indiana, marking the beginning of a remarkable journey in the pizza industry.
Timeline of Key Events:
1984: Papa John’s is founded by John Schnatter.
1985: The first franchise location opens in the same year as the founding, in Clarksville, Indiana.
1986: The company expands beyond Indiana, opening locations in Kentucky and Ohio.
1993: Papa John’s goes public, trading on the NASDAQ under the ticker symbol PZZA.
1997: The company reaches a milestone of 1,500 stores across the United States.
2001: Papa John’s launches its online ordering system, pioneering convenience in the pizza delivery industry.
2004: International expansion begins with the opening of the first Papa John’s location in the United Kingdom.
2009: Papa John’s introduces its “Better Ingredients. Better Pizza.” slogan, emphasizing its commitment to quality.
2016: The company celebrates the opening of its 5,000th store worldwide.
2017: Founder John Schnatter steps down as CEO, but remains actively involved with the company as Chairman Emeritus.
2019: Papa John’s launches its “Voices of Papa John’s” campaign, highlighting the diversity and dedication of its employees.
2021: The company continues to innovate, introducing new menu items and expanding its digital ordering platforms.
2024: Papa John’s remains a beloved choice for pizza enthusiasts worldwide, staying true to its commitment to quality ingredients and exceptional customer service.
Conclusion:
Since its inception in 1984, Papa John’s has become synonymous with quality pizza and exceptional customer service. With a commitment to using fresh ingredients and innovative marketing strategies, the company has continued to thrive and expand, serving pizza lovers around the globe. From its humble beginnings in Jeffersonville, Indiana, to its status as a global pizza powerhouse, Papa John’s remains dedicated to delivering delicious pizzas and memorable dining experiences for years to come.
FAQs
Did Shaq buy Papa John’s?
No, Shaquille O’Neal did not buy Papa John’s. However, he partnered with the company in 2019, becoming a board member and the brand ambassador. His involvement aimed to help restore the company’s image after controversies involving its founder.
Who originally owned Papa John’s?
Papa John’s was originally founded by John Schnatter. He started the company in 1984 by selling pizzas out of a converted broom closet in the back of his father’s tavern in Jeffersonville, Indiana. Schnatter served as the face of the company until 2018.
How old is Papa John’s?
Papa John’s was founded in 1984, making it 40 years old as of 2024. Since its inception, the company has grown into one of the largest pizza delivery chains globally, known for its signature pizza recipes and commitment to quality ingredients.