Pizza chain Papa John's looking to open two new branches in South Shields and Jarrow

The firm, which has around 450 outlets nationwide, is searching for premises in South Shields and Jarrow and is holding virtual meetings with potential franchisees.

Phil Gaffer, the company’s United Kingdom franchise sales and business development manager, said: “We are particularly looking for franchisees to develop businesses in the North West, North East, Nottinghamshire and the South West.”

Papa John’s, which is also earmarking Hartlepool and Stockton for new branches, is continuing to expand despite the pandemic and said successful candidates would receive help in identifying and opening suitable premises.

Mr Gaffer added: “Our franchisee recruitment process is the same, yet we have needed to become ‘virtual’ for some elements.

“I usually start by speaking to potential franchisees over the phone, then they attend a discovery day where we meet in-person.

“Normally, I’m on the road twice a week holding discovery meetings across the UK. Now we’ve launched weekly ‘virtual’ discovery meetings online.

“These one-to-one sessions are the first step in getting to know the candidate and for them to get to know Papa John’s.

“Many have tried Papa John’s and love the product and now these remote sessions are the chance to learn how the tried and tested franchise concept works.

“They are an opportunity for both parties to ask questions to see if there could be a good fit for the future.

“I am also planning virtual regional recruitment events which will start to be held early in the summer too.”

Further details are available at www.papajohns.co.uk/franchise/

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