Papa John’s: Announces Expansion Plans in Mexico

Louisville / KY. (pj) Papa John’s International Inc., the world’s third largest pizza company, announced expansion plans in Mexico with the signing of a restaurant development agreement with Orquest Foods to build 60 restaurants over the next eight years.

Orquest Foods is owned by the Clariond Lozano Family who has roots in Mexico that date back to 1936 and has been in the food business for the past ten years.

«We are very excited about joining the Papa John’s family and expanding the «Better ingredients, better pizza». brand promise throughout Mexico», said Santiago Clariond Lozano, Chairman of the Board and Executive Officer of Orquest Foods. «We respect and admire Papa John’s commitment to quality and look forward to expanding the brand in Mexico».

In addition to the 60 stores throughout Mexico, Orquest Foods recently purchased 26 Papa John’s restaurants in the Mexico City area. Mexico City holds a special place for the «Better ingredients, better pizza». brand as it is the site of Papa John’s first international location.

«We are honoured that Orquest Foods has chosen to invest in the Papa John’s brand. The Clariond Lozano family has a long history of success and an excellent operational team of executive leadership», said Tim O’Hern, Senior Vice President + Chief Development Officer. «We look forward to working together as they build upon the 26 stores that have been acquired in Mexico City and develop our brand throughout many states in Mexico».

Papa John’s International has more than 1’500 international restaurants, including over 350 restaurants in 16 Latin American countries and is looking for potential franchisees in Brazil, Honduras, Uruguay and the Bahamas.