Exploring Papa John's International Marketing Strategies: Better Get You Some and Cheddar Pizza Platform
Discover how Papa John's successfully navigates international markets with its innovative marketing campaigns and product launches.

Adaptation to Local Taste Profiles
Papa John's success in nearly 50 global markets is attributed to its keen adaptation to local taste profiles. In regions like Asia, where traditional foods like congee and dumplings dominate, the brand incorporates seafood into pizzas to cater to local preferences. For instance, in China, a well-established pizza market, Papa John's has adapted its offerings to suit the local palate. On the other hand, in emerging markets like the Philippines and Cambodia, the company is strategically building its presence by understanding and aligning with local cuisines.
Innovative Marketing Campaigns: 'Better Get You Some'
The launch of 'Better Get You Some' showcases how Papa John's leverages a universal love for pizza through engaging visuals, captivating soundtracks, and a multimedia experience inspired by hip-hop and expressionist art. This marketing message, incubated in North America, was seamlessly integrated internationally, resonating across borders. By celebrating the core product equity of pizza, Papa John's positions itself as a brand that transcends cultural boundaries and resonates with diverse audiences worldwide.
Cheddar Pizza Platform: A Successful International Launch
The recent introduction of the Cheddar Pizza platform in 23 international markets highlights Papa John's strategic product innovation. Utilizing Nielsen studies to identify consumer interest, the brand capitalized on the novelty of cheddar cheese, a familiar yet intriguing choice. The orange-colored pizza not only enticed consumers but also drove incremental visits to restaurants. The remarkable success in markets like China, South Korea, and Qatar underscores the effectiveness of launching standout products within a strong marketing framework like 'Better Get You Some.'

Influencer Marketing and Cultural Integration
Papa John's deftly integrates influencers into its marketing strategies, focusing on creators with authentic connections to the brand. By partnering with ambassadors like Shaquille O'Neal and Big Boi, Papa John's enhances its reach and engagement with millennial moms, dads, and Gen Z audiences. In international markets, collaborations with local icons like Garfield in China and K-pop group IVE in Korea demonstrate the brand's commitment to cultural relevance. Leveraging influencers and cultural easter eggs, Papa John's creates a compelling narrative that resonates globally.

User-Generated Content and Employee Engagement
Beyond influencers, Papa John's values user-generated content from customers, amplifying authentic experiences with the brand. By repurposing guest posts and spotlighting unique celebrations like brides featuring pizza at their events, Papa John's fosters a sense of community and relatability. Moreover, tapping into the talents of its team members, such as the Bartoli brothers known for their dough-spinning skills, enriches the brand's narrative and amplifies its online presence. This blend of external and internal storytelling reinforces Papa John's brand identity across various digital platforms.

Master Franchise Partners and Cultural Integration
Internationally, Papa John's collaborates closely with master franchise partners to identify and leverage local influencers, adapting its marketing strategies to diverse cultural landscapes. By entrusting these partners with regional territories, the brand ensures a deep cultural integration, tailoring campaigns and product launches to resonate with specific audiences. Through this strategic approach, Papa John's aims to drive pizza devotion and establish itself as a culturally relevant brand worldwide.