US pizza chain Papa John’s, operated in Kenya by Express Kitchen, has embarked on an expansion drive two years after entering the local market.
Papa John’s is strengthening its visibility and accelerating growth across Nairobi, anchored on its global promise “Better Ingredients. Better Pizza.” The brand is leveraging a growing store network and a convenience‑first retail strategy to appeal to the city’s fast‑paced, on‑the‑go consumers.
The expansion is highlighted by the opening of new outlets at Shell service stations in Lavington and along Thika Road—high‑traffic locations designed to meet customers where they already are.
“This marks an important phase of growth for Papa John’s in Kenya,” said Ayan Ali, Director, Papa John’s Kenya. “With 10 stores already serving customers and plans to open eight more this year, we are making it easier for people to discover us, experience our quality, and choose Papa John’s again and again.”
Convenience Meets Quality
Papa John’s Kenya currently operates outlets in Westlands, Kilimani, Ruaka, Narok, South C, Parklands, Spring Valley, and Karen, with Lavington and Thika Road among its latest additions. By situating stores in petrol station retail spaces and along major commuter routes, the brand is tapping into Nairobi’s reality of long commutes, busy schedules, and rising demand for quick, reliable meal options.
According to the company, the strategy reflects a broader ambition to embed the brand into everyday routines while maintaining consistent product standards.
“Our quality begins with the basics,” said Olivia Oeri, Operations Lead, Papa John’s Kenya. “We make our dough fresh in‑store, train our teams on a strong food safety culture, and follow clear specifications across our outlets to deliver that signature Papa John’s taste—consistently.”
Signature Flavours and Customer Trust
Papa John’s Kenya highlights its global hallmarks, including the signature garlic dipping sauce and pepperonciniserved alongside pizzas. Popular menu items such as the Spicy Chicken Ranch and Super Papa pizzas are positioned as customer favorites.
Food safety remains central to the brand’s promise. Delivery orders are sealed to assure customers that meals arrive safely and untampered.
“One of the simplest ways to build trust is to protect the product from the moment it leaves our hands,” added Oeri.
Papa John’s Kenya also emphasizes that its menu is halal‑friendly, reinforcing its appeal to a broad and diverse customer base.
Pizza as a Social Connector
Beyond the product, Papa John’s Kenya is leaning into the social role pizza plays in everyday life.
“Pizza is designed for sharing. It’s part of how we connect—friends, colleagues, families,” said Ali. “That’s what Better Together means to us: more moments around the table, more spontaneous stops on the way home, and more reasons to gather.”
Promotions to Attract New Customers
To celebrate its latest openings, Papa John’s Kenya is offering discounts on select top‑selling pizzas. The promotion runs at the Lavington outlet (Shell St. Austin Petrol Station) until Sunday, and at the Thika Road outlet (Shell Service Station, just after Mountain Mall) until 7 February 2026.
