Shaq Is Investing In Nine Atlanta Papa John’s Locations And Joining The Pizza Chain’s Board
Shaq can now add 'pizza shop owner' to his long and varied resume. The NBA Hall of Famer announced this morning he is joining Papa John's Board of Directors and investing in nine Atlanta-area Papa John's franchises.
As part of the announcement, Shaq wrote a sports analogy-infused letter posted to Papa John's website. He talked about meeting the still relatively new CEO, Steve Ritchie, at a Shaq's Fun House Event in Atlanta. "Steve sounded like a player preparing for a big game – his passion for the company and its people is authentic and exciting."
Steve took over after John Schnatter stepped down following controversy surrounding his comments about the NFL; later, it came out that John used a racial slur on a conference call, at which point he resigned as the company's chairman.
"It struck a chord with me that the company is putting in the work to do better within its walls and in the communities it serves across the country," Shaq wrote. In a statement, he also said this: "Papa John’s is building a better culture, and I want to be a part of improving the Company from the inside out."
This isn't the first time Shaq is working with a fast food brand-he's been involved in the restaurant business since he was a player. He currently owns a Krispy Kreme franchise in Atlanta, a fast-casual restaurant chain called Big Chicken (he's also the founder), and a fine-dining restaurant in Los Angeles. Previously, he owned 27 Five Guys franchises. At one point, his face could be found on giant cans of cream soda, which I truly hope makes a comeback. @Papa John's, you know what to do.
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