Papa Johns is expanding its presence in North America, with plans to open 50 locations by 2028 in collaboration with The Bajco Group. 

The new arrangement would increase Papa Johns’ presence in The Bajco Group’s existing areas throughout the Midwest, as well as Arizona, Pennsylvania, and Florida, adding to the current total of more than 200 stores.

“Signing this deal, I am as excited today as I was 20 years ago when I opened my first restaurant,” said  Nadeem Bajwa, CEO of The Bajco Group. 

“Papa Johns is not just about business. My team members are my family – and that’s a whole different ballgame. I’m proud that in partnership with Papa Johns, I have been able to pursue my aspiration, and watch my team members go from starting their first jobs to becoming leaders.”

Earlier this year, Papa John’s introduced the Back to Growth Program (B2G Program), a new development program designed to drive growth in North America. 

In addition, Papa John’s International announced last month that its annual income increased the previous year, citing an extended week of operations and higher franchise royalties.