What Ever Happened with Peyton Manning’s Papa Johns Franchise Empire?

Peyton Manning, the former NFL quarterback who led both the Colts and Broncos to Super Bowl victories during his 18-year career, also became a competitive player in the franchise world. For six years or so, he owned 31 franchise units with pizza giant Papa Johns. He did a series of commercials with the brand, some with John Schnatter, the brand’s CEO at the time, gaining more recognition for the partnership. 

In February of 2018, however, Manning sold all 31 franchise units just days before the pizza franchise announced that it was no longer the official pizza brand of the NFL.

Just before the partnership between the football player and Papa Johns ended, the franchise suffered a 3.9% drop in sales in the fourth quarter. Schnatter released a statement placing the onus on the NFL for the brand’s decreased revenue.

“The NFL has hurt us by not resolving the current debacle to the players’ and owners’ satisfaction,” he said during a conference call with investors. “NFL leadership has hurt Papa Johns shareholders.”

This statement was regarding the protests that took place against racial inequality and police brutality during the national anthem at the start of NFL games that year. Within weeks, Schnatter stepped down from his role as CEO.

Despite the controversy at the end of his time of ownership, Manning stayed closely aligned with the brand as he still advocated for Papa Johns long after selling his units. Papa Johns also expressed their gratitude for his involvement. 

“After six successful and rewarding years, Peyton Manning and Papa Johns International have sold their stake in 31 Papa Johns locations, which were part of a joint venture in the Denver,  Colorado market,” the pizza chain said in a statement. 

Another multi-unit franchisee purchased the locations, and Papa Johns has since seen other professional athletes become franchisees. Shaquille O'Neal owns nine franchise units with Papa Johns and agreed to an endorsement deal with the brand worth $5.63 million in April of 2022.

As for Manning, he has gone on to be a pitchman for several other reputable brands such as Gatorade, MasterCard and DIRECTV. 

Now, Manning is predicted to have a net worth of $250 million and founded the Peyback Foundation to help raise proceeds for disadvantaged children.