If you’ve watched NFL Sunday at all this fall, chances are you’ve probably seen Denver Broncos’ quarterback Peyton Manning starring in a Papa John’s commercial with the company’s CEO, John Schnatter.
But, Manning — the former Heisman frontrunner — has decided to no longer just play a role in the commercials; Manning has once again entered the sports business arena, as he becomes Papa John’s newest franchisee, with 21 locations set to open in Denver.
Manning also is a co-owner of three D1 Sports Training facilities throughout Tennessee; D1 is a mid-tier NFL combine training facility and recreational workout center.
According to Matt Toy, D1’s Corporate Public Relations Director, Manning’s latest sports business move won’t affect his partnership with D1.
Peyton Manning Dives Into Sports Business With Papa John’s
“He’s the kind of partner we’re looking for, not only in marketing but in business,” Papa John’s Chief Marketing Officer, Andrew Varga, said of Manning’s new sports business venture to the Associated Press.
“The pizza category is fun. Our founder has fun when he gets into the commercials,” Varga continued. “You throw Peyton into that mix with the NFL platform, and it makes it easy to execute lighthearted commercials that are very much in character for both.”
“It’s a smart investment now and will be long after I’m done playing football,” Manning said of his sports business decision.
FREE PIZZA from Papa John’s & Peyton Manning is @papajohns newest franchisee. Touchdown! Click here! ow.ly/eNfUy
— Papa John’s Pizza (@PapaJohns) October 29, 2012
Photo Credit: AP
