News

Papa John’s acquisition extends brand's India presence

November 25, 2014

Papa John’s, Avan Projects and Global Franchise Architects today announced the acquisition of Pizza Corner stores in South India. Papa John’s will convert the existing Pizza Corner stores to Papa John’s restaurants through Q1 2015.

This acquisition is part of Papa John’s plans to expand its presence in India, specifically in Bangalore, Chennai and Hyderabad.

According to a news release, Pizza Corner, part of the GFA brands, is the third largest pizza chain in Southern India. The city of Chennai has been the most successful market for the Pizza Corner chain.

Papa John’s currently has 15 operating restaurants across India through its Master Franchisee for the region, Om Pizza and Eats. Through this merger, Papa John’s will expand its presence by a minimum of 40 stores with conversions beginning in late 2014 and continuing into 2015.

"We are energized about this accelerated International expansion for Papa John's in Southern India," CEO and Founder John Schnatter said in the release. "The merger provides us the opportunity to penetrate the market at a much more rapid pace, and increase our scale in a shorter period."

GFA CEO Joseph Cherian added that the Indian QSR market is valued at Rs $50 billion, from Rs $35 billion the year prior.

"This consolidation is a unique opportunity for Papa John’s to take a major pie in the market share in the Indian pizza segment. Owing to a majority of younger population under 30 with a liking for international food gives us the right opportunity to address the need gap for true international brands," he said.