Papa Johns International, the American pizza chain, is preparing to re-enter the Indian market with an ambitious plan to open 650 outlets over the next decade. The development comes at a time when India continues to face one of the highest tariff regimes imposed by the United States on a range of exports.
The company, headquartered in Louisville, Kentucky and Atlanta, Georgia, is the fourth largest pizza delivery chain in the United States as of 2023. Papa Johns has made multiple attempts to establish itself in India in the past but had struggled against competitors such as Domino’s and Pizza Hut which have built large networks and strong customer loyalty.
Industry observers note that this new re-entry plan signals renewed confidence in India’s fast-food and quick service restaurant sector which has grown rapidly in urban centres. With changing consumer preferences and expanding delivery infrastructure, international players are seeking to capture a greater share of the Indian dining and takeaway market.
Despite the broader trade tensions between India and the United States, including disagreements on tariffs and market access, the move underscores the appeal of India’s consumer market for foreign companies. Papa Johns is expected to localise some of its menu offerings to cater to Indian tastes while also positioning itself as a premium option in the competitive pizza segment.
The company has not disclosed investment figures for its expansion but reports suggest it will rely on partnerships and franchise agreements to scale to 650 stores. Food industry analysts believe the brand will focus on tier one and tier two cities in its initial phase.
This expansion plan is viewed as both a strategic comeback for Papa Johns in India and an indication of continued foreign food chain interest in the Indian market despite trade challenges.
