Papa Johns

Papa Johns operates over 450 stores in the UK, all run by franchisees, and now awards the franchise only to individuals capable of operating a multi-store business.

The brand was founded in the United States in 1984 and trades in more than 40 international markets. Its UK and European campus is in Milton Keynes, which also houses the Quality Control Centre where franchisee training takes place.

Why Choose the Franchise Papa Johns?

Previous catering or retailing experience is not necessary. The company states that most of its franchisees came from outside the sector, and that its most successful operators are entrepreneurial owner-operators with strong people skills.

Training runs to six weeks on the Management Training Programme, leading to a Restaurant Operations Certificate, delivered online or at the Milton Keynes Quality Control Centre plus a buddy store near the franchisee’s home. A dedicated Franchise Business Manager and the Restaurant Support Centre then assist with recruitment, training, marketing, product control and pricing.

The initial agreement runs for 10 years and is currently renewable at no additional charge. An average new store creates 20 jobs, split 40% full-time and 60% part-time, and typically closes at 23:00. From application to opening usually takes six to nine months, depending on property availability.

Papa Johns requires hands-on involvement from the franchisee principal or a dedicated management team, and retains the right to remove a store from an operator it judges sub-standard.