Papa John’s seeks to reinforce values by mandating training amid its power struggle with ousted founder

Pizza giant Papa John’s is mandating diversity training for all staff members as ousted founder John Schnatter ramps up his efforts to regain control over the pizza franchise he still maintains a majority ownership stake in. The move is the latest development in the acrimonious fallout from Schnatter’s resignation and subsequent lawsuit against the company in recent months.

In an open letter published to the brand’s website, Papa John’s CEO Steve Ritchie said the pizza chain is consulting experts on how to improve diversity and inclusion practices. Richie also noted Papa John’s is planning system-wide unconscious racial bias training for employees and taking steps to bring more diversity to its employee and franchisee base.

Earlier this week, Schnatter launched a website to publicize his efforts to take back control of the company.