LOUISVILLE Ky. Papa John’s International Inc. founder and chief executive John Schnatter is still in a giving mood. After awarding $250,000 a few months ago to the owner of his 1971 Z28 Camaro he sold 25 years ago to save his father’s tavern and start Papa John’s, Schnatter now will turn his company’s generosity to the Toys for Tots charity.
Papa John’s will donate $1 for every replica Camaro sold on the company’s website to the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation, which provides support and holiday gifts to children in need. In addition to giving a $1 to charity, customers who buy a toy Camaro for $4.99 also will receive a coupon for a free medium cheese pizza.
“You could say that Christmas came early this year for John, which is why we’re especially pleased to share his joy with kids around the country who love Papa John’s pizza," said Jude Thompson, Papa John’s president and chief operating officer. "Papa John’s is proud to partner and be associated with Toys for Tots, renowned for touching millions of young lives year after year.”
The company also is donating 5,000 replica Camaro cars directly to Toys for Tots, a retail value of $25,000 in toys and $50,000 in pizza. The company estimates its total donation to the 2009 Toys for Tots campaign will exceed $155,000.
“Papa John [Schnatter] has a great story that’s not only fun, but also provides hope and inspiration to less fortunate children,” said Marine Maj. Bill Grein, vice president of the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation. “Toys for Tots is honored to have the support of Papa John’s and their 2,600 restaurants across the country this season as we make the holidays brighter for families everywhere.”
Louisville-based Papa John’s operates or franchises 3,458 restaurants worldwide and had revenues of $263.9 million in its Sept. 27-ended third quarter.
Contact Mark Brandau at [email protected].