Papa John’s International witnessed lower global system-wide sales last year despite the opening of new restaurants.

The company’s global system-wide sales fell 3 per cent to $4.9 billion as its North America comparable sales slid 4 per cent.

North America franchised restaurants comparable sales decreased 4 per cent while domestic company-owned restaurants narrowed 5 per cent.

International comparable sales declined by less than 1 per cent.

The company opened 124 net new restaurants – 81 in North America and 43 in international markets.

Last April, Papa John’s signed a franchise deal with The Bajco Group to expand its presence in North America, with plans to open 50 locations by 2028.