Papa John’s and Board Member Shaquille O’Neal Deliver Pizza with Purpose

Papa John’s Shaq-a-Roni pizza will return with a limited run through Oct. 24 and a $1 donation for each pie sold to The Papa John’s Foundation for Building Community. The exclusive menu item is back for a second year after being developed in partnership with board member and franchisee Shaquille worO’Neal — more well-known for his stature and 19-year NBA career. The extra-large pie features extra cheese and extra pepperoni, and is cut into the company’s largest slice size to date.

“The Shaq-a-Roni is inspired by our shared love of delicious pepperoni pizza and our passion for giving back to support our communities,” Shaquille O’Neal, Papa John’s board member and franchise owner, said. “By donating $1 from every Shaq-a-Roni sold, we’re turning a regular pizza night into pizza with a purpose. It’s a no-brainer.”

Last summer’s nearly two-month campaign raised more than $3.6 million dollars for the foundation's charitable partners, which supported the foundation’s mission, as well as COVID-19 relief and racial justice. Last year’s beneficiaries included:

• World Central Kitchen
• Boys & Girls Clubs of America
• United Negro College Fund
• Goodr
• Greater Louisville Inc. (supporting the Business Council To End Racism)

This year, Papa John’s is including its charitable partners, like Boys & Girls Clubs of America, Baltimore Hunger Project and United Negro College Fund into its national ad campaign.

“We are excited to partner with Shaquille to deliver an extra-large, extra-special pizza that also gives back,” Rob Lynch, president and CEO of Papa John’s, said. “The needs in our communities have increased over the last 18 months, and we are so proud of our team members, franchisees and customers for coming together to provide support to great organizations doing important work.”