John Schnatter

John Schnatter at Charlotte Motor Speedway 2013 (8929996982)

John H. Schnatter (born November 22, 1961), also known as Papa John, is an American entrepreneur who founded Papa John's Pizza in 1984. Schnatter's journey from a broom closet in his father's tavern to the CEO of one of the largest pizza delivery restaurant chains in the world is a notable example of American entrepreneurial success. His story is often highlighted in discussions about entrepreneurship, business strategy, and corporate governance.

Early Life and Education

John H. Schnatter was born in Jeffersonville, Indiana, where he was raised in a tight-knit family. His interest in business emerged early, and he pursued a degree in business administration from Ball State University. While in college, Schnatter worked at a local pizza pub, where he gained firsthand experience in the pizza business, laying the groundwork for his future endeavors.

Founding of Papa John's

In 1984, Schnatter knocked down a broom closet in his father's tavern, Mick's Lounge, in Jeffersonville. He sold his 1971 Camaro Z28 to purchase $1,600 worth of used pizza equipment and began selling pizzas to the tavern's customers. His pizzas quickly gained popularity, leading to the opening of the first Papa John's restaurant in 1985. The company's philosophy was simple: "Better Ingredients, Better Pizza." This commitment to quality helped differentiate Papa John's in the competitive pizza market.

Expansion and Success

Under Schnatter's leadership, Papa John's experienced rapid growth. The company went public in 1993, and by the late 1990s, it had opened its 1,500th store. Papa John's was not only expanding across the United States but also internationally, becoming a recognizable brand worldwide. Schnatter's focus on customer service, quality ingredients, and innovative technology, such as online ordering, played a significant role in the company's success.

Controversies and Resignation

Despite his success, Schnatter's career has not been without controversy. In 2017, he stepped down as CEO after making comments about the National Football League's handling of player protests during the national anthem, which sparked significant backlash. In 2018, Schnatter resigned as chairman of the board after admitting to using a racial slur during a conference call. These incidents led to a public relations crisis for Papa John's, affecting its market share and brand image.

Legacy and Philanthropy

Despite the controversies, Schnatter's impact on the pizza industry and entrepreneurship is undeniable. He has been recognized for his contributions to business and philanthropy, donating millions to various causes, including education and relief efforts. Schnatter's story is often cited as an example of how determination, hard work, and a focus on quality can lead to significant business success.

See Also

• Entrepreneurship
• Business Strategy
• Corporate Governance
• Pizza