Papa John’s and Shaquille O’Neal partnership scores another big win

Sometimes a brand partnership just resonates with people. It might not be the most obvious, the biggest or even the funniest. Still, that collaboration exemplifies the positive aspects of the joint venture. For Papa John’s and Shaquille O’Neal, the fan-favorite Shaq-a-Roni pizza is one of those examples.

Pizza is an iconic food. Although a few toppings can cause heated debates and food trends show plant-based toppings taking over, the reality is that many people would happily have a slice any day of the week.

Sometimes a special pizza entices people to place another or a special order. Whether it is a limited time offering, a special collaboration or raising funds for a worthy cause, that incentive tables cooking another dinner and replacing it with a pizza order.

The return of the Shaq-a-Roni pizza falls into that category as well as celebrates a partnership that gets people excited about that second, third or more slice. Created in collaboration with O’Neal, that pizza is more than just a “larger than life pizza” with extra cheese and pepperoni. It might be the largest pizza, but the size of the slice pales in comparison to the goodness that it does outside of the box.

As O’Neal said, “The Shaq-a-Roni is inspired by our shared love of delicious pepperoni pizza and our passion for giving back to support our communities. 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.”

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.”

Available to Papa Rewards members now and to all customers on August 23, the Shaq-a-Roni pizza will be available through October 24. Each pizza benefits The Papa John’s Foundation for Building Community.

When a slice gives back it might be time to add a second pizza night to the weekly dinner schedule. Can you hear the cheers from the dinner table now?