Papa John's expanding into Spain
Papa John’s plans to develop more than 100 restaurants in Spain.

LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Papa John’s International has signed an agreement to develop more than 100 restaurants in Spain, continuing its strategy of business development in Europe. The pizza maker said it reached agreement on the transaction with master franchisee PJ Espana Pizzerias S.L., which is a fully owned subsidiary of Drake Enterprises AG, the same owner of the Papa John’s franchisee in Chile. The first unit is set to open during the second quarter of 2016.

“The Papa John’s brand continues to grow, and we are pleased to extend our growth with our successful franchisee from Chile into Spain,” said Tim O’Hern, senior vice president and chief development officer of Papa John’s International, Inc. “Not only do we look forward to introducing Spaniards to our quality ingredients, but we also look forward to creating more quality jobs across Spain. There is a huge opportunity to create a meaningful impact to Spain’s labor market.”

The entry into Spain continues Papa John’s strategy of business development in Europe. Papa John’s International has more than 300 restaurants in the United Kingdom and recently announced plans to open in Northeastern France. Papa John’s International is looking for potential franchisees in other areas of France, as well as in Poland, Czech Republic and Belgium.