Press Releases
Papa Murphy's Named Chain of the Year VANCOUVER, Wash. - June 3, 2008 - Papa Murphy's International, America's largest take 'n' bake pizza chain, has been named by Pizza Today magazine as its 2008 Chain of the Year. Announced in the magazine's June 2008 issue, the company is a three-time recipient of the accolade, first in 2001 and again in 2006, and is the only chain to receive it more than once. "The pizza industry has been on a roller coaster of sorts over the past 12 months, but Papa Murphy's has been straight and steady," said Jeremy White, editor-in-chief at Pizza Today. "The company's leaders have taken advantage of what I consider to be the brand's key assets - quality, value, convenience - and used those strong points to perform very well in the face of uncertain economic times." "We are thrilled about this third award from Pizza Today," said Clarice Turner, president and COO at Papa Murphy's. "We believe that this award reflects our commitment to provide a great-quality product, made affordable to our customers; to our franchise community for their consistent delivery of a great guest experience; and, to our restaurant support team who enable this process to happen. It's an honor to accept this award on behalf of all of these groups." "The recognition Papa Murphy's receives not only from us, but, more importantly, from their customers - who continually name them the Best Pizza Chain in America - is well deserved," White added. About Papa Murphy's Papa Murphy's Appoints Chief Marketing Officer VANCOUVER, Wash. - April 15, 2008 -- Papa Murphy's International, America's take 'n' bake pizza leader and now the fifth largest pizza chain in the U.S.1, today announced the hiring of Ann Stone as chief marketing officer. Papa Murphy's currently operates over 1,000 locations in 30 states and Canada. Ms. Stone brings to Papa Murphy's an extensive background of executive marketing experience garnered from positions within companies such as International Dairy Queen, Inc., Church's Chicken, Pizza Hut, Inc., The Coca-Cola Company, and S. C. Johnson & Son Inc. Most recently, she spearheaded the launch of multiple global initiatives for Dairy Queen as the company's vice president of international operations and marketing. From Dubai to China, Ms. Stone focused on generating new market ideas, service improvements, and franchisee support. As chief marketing officer at Church's Chicken, Ms. Stone lead the successful repositioning of the chicken chain's brand with the creation of a new adverting model, brand icons and packaging, among other elements. She is also the founder and CEO of Tittabawassee LLC, an Atlanta-based firm that specializes in restaurant marketing and strategy services. "Over the last few years we've made great strides in growing Papa Murphy's geographically - we're one of the few chains to exceed 1,000 locations - now it's time to focus our attention on evolving and growing the brand," said Clarice Turner, president and COO at Papa Murphy's. "Ann brings a caliber of experience, knowledge and skill that Papa Murphy's can tap to blaze a trail into its next exciting chapter." Ms. Stone earned her degree in business administration from Hope College in Holland, Michigan. She later also earned an M.B.A. from the University of Michigan. Ms. Stone currently serves on the board of directors for Definition 6, an Atlanta-based internet consulting and software firm. About Papa Murphy's Papa Murphy's Appoints VP of Franchise Sales VANCOUVER, Wash. - April 1, 2008 -- Papa Murphy's International, America's take 'n' bake pizza leader and now fifth largest pizza chain in the U.S.,1 today announced the expansion of its Franchise Sales department with the appointment of Gregg Benvenuto to vice president of franchise sales. "We're aggressively seeking new, multi-unit franchisees in many major metropolitan areas," said Kevin King, PMI's senior vice president of development. "Gregg's focus will be signing area developers in markets where we see the highest potential for multiple locations. I have no doubt that he will play a key role in reaching our goals this year." Papa Murphy's currently operates over 1,060 locations with plans to add more than 150 in 2008. Benvenuto joins Papa Murphy's following a 16-year stint with Yum! Brands' subsidiary Taco Bell. For the past ten years, Benvenuto held the position of franchise business consultant, leading Taco Bell's Northwestern U. S. expansion efforts with the management of 18 franchise entities in the same region. Benvenuto began his career with Taco Bell in 1992 as an area manager. Prior to this role, Benvenuto was with Atlantic Equipment Company, where he designed layouts for and sold the firm's foodservice equipment. Benvenuto received a Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration from Towson State University in Baltimore Maryland. About Papa Murphy's Strong Sales and Increased Store Count Fueled Papa Murphy's Record Year VANCOUVER, Wash. - January 22, 2008 -- Papa Murphy's International today announced that it closed 2007 with over $500 million in total U.S. systemwide sales, a nearly 13 percent increase from 2006. New store sales volumes rose 46% over the last year. Now the fifth largest pizza company in the U.S.1, Papa Murphy's ended the year with 1,067 locations, opening 119 in 2007. The company continues to be widely acknowledged for its excellence in value, quality, variety, service and convenience. In fact, consumers named the company 'Best Pizza Chain in America' for the fifth time in 2007. Last year was also marked by new leadership, new international territory, numerous operational advancements and many company achievements. First, Clarice Turner was appointed to the position of president and chief operating officer in May. Turner spent 16 years in a variety of executive management positions with Taco Bell Corporation, a subsidiary of Yum! Brands, before joining Papa Murphy's. Second, the take 'n' bake pioneer blazed its trail outside of U.S. borders in 2007, opening ten stores in Canada. Additionally, Papa Murphy's found success in the following:
With its sights set on opening over 300 new stores over the next two years, Papa Murphy's is aggressively seeking even more franchise owners in 2008 for these metropolitan areas:
"Experience the Freedom of Owning Your Own Franchise," is an informational forum currently touring the U.S. Kevin King, senior vice president of development, says that new franchise owners in the above metropolitan areas will have a leg up. 'The markets we're targeting have already been exposed to Papa Murphy's; they're educated on the take 'n' bake concept, familiar with the Papa Murphy's brand, and have fallen in love with our product.' About Papa Murphy's Papa Murphy's Launches Chicken Bacon Artichoke deLITE® Pizza VANCOUVER, Wash. - January 2, 2008 -- In support of New Year's resolutions aiming to slim the waistline, Papa Murphy's has added another pizza to its reduced-fat, reduced-calorie thin crust line - the Chicken Bacon Artichoke deLITE Pizza. Introduced in stores this week, the pizza is sure to please both meat and veggie fans. Beginning with a cracker-thin crust, it's topped with Papa Murphy's creamy garlic sauce and delicious, fresh ingredients including 100 percent real mozzarella cheese, crispy bacon, grilled chicken, fresh spinach, marinated artichoke hearts, shredded parmesan and zesty herbs. The Chicken Bacon Artichoke deLITE Pizza joins a variety of others in the line, including the Pepperoni deLITE, Veggie deLITE and the Herb Chicken Mediterranean deLITE. David Gardner, Papa Murphy's director of research and development, says that the Chicken Bacon Artichoke deLITE meets the challenging level of sophistication that today's consumer palate presents. "Take artichokes, for example. They aren't a fringe ingredient in the pizza business anymore. Not only do our guests expect fresh ingredients, but they look for a variety of toppings. We can do that." Consumers who have tried the Chicken Bacon Artichoke deLITE Pizza love the combination of flavors on top of the thin crust, plus the fact that the pizza has almost half the fat and calories of regular pizzas. Papa Murphy's pizzas are made fresh daily - never frozen - and the deLITEs take 10 to 12 minutes to bake in customers' home ovens. Prices start at $7.99. About Papa Murphy's Papa Murphy's Carves a Halloween Pizza VANCOUVER, Wash. - October 10, 2007 -- Ghosts and goblins of all ages will want to treat themselves to the newest Papa Murphy's Take 'N' Bake Pizza this Halloween. The award-winning take 'n' bake pioneer has carved up a Jack-O-Lantern Pizza complete with the signature pumpkin smile and stem. Made right in front of customers with fresh, never-frozen, ingredients, this pizza is fun for kids and perfect for parents who try to squeeze in a meal before heading outside for a trick-or-treat marathon. Papa Murphy's Jack-O-Lantern Pizza, topped with freshly-grated cheese and a premium pepperoni-constructed face, will be available beginning October 24 through Halloween at a great value. Price and participation varies nationwide. Pre-ordering is recommended for what's predicted to be a popular holiday item. Like Papa Murphy's other signature pizzas, the Jack-O-Lantern takes 12-18 minutes to bake in customers' home ovens. The Jack-O-Lantern will also be offered as part of Papa Murphy's "Scream of a Deal" party pack - an ideal meal solution for Halloween party hosts. The "Scream of a Deal" is made up of one Large Murphy's Combo Pizza, one Jack-O-Lantern Pizza, Cheesy Bread, cookie dough and one two-liter Pepsi product. Prices start at $19.99. "Halloween has always been one of Papa Murphy's biggest events so this year we decided to make it even more fun for our customers," said Mark Stickler, vice president of brand marketing. "The Jack-O-Lantern Pizza is another great product created by a franchisee, and we saw what a hit it was in his market last year. We're anticipating a great national response." About Papa Murphy's Papa Murphy's Tosses Trans Fat VANCOUVER, Wash. - September 18, 2007 -- Award-winning Papa Murphy's International today announced that its 1,000-plus locations in the U.S. are now sending customers home with a take 'n' bake pizza containing zero grams of trans fat per serving. From Papa Murphy's signature stuffed pizzas, to its reduced fat and calorie deLITEs, all added trans fat has been eliminated from the company's entire pizza line. Papa Murphy's has reformulated more than 20 pizzas without sacrificing the quality, flavor and taste customers have come to expect. "We were voted the best in the pizza business five times in a row by consumers because we offer a quality product that's baked in our customers' ovens, which, for many people, qualifies it as a home-cooked meal," said Clarice Turner, president and COO of Papa Murphy's. "As a wife and a mom, I try to be very careful about not feeding my family anything with potentially harmful ingredients, and our customers shouldn't have to either." Last year, the American Heart Association recommended that people limit their intake of trans fat to less than 1 percent of total daily calories, which translates to about 2 to 2.5 grams of trans fat per day. "We will not compromise any part of our guests' experience," Turner added. About Papa Murphy's Take 'n' Bake Takes On Edmonton EDMONTON, Alberta. - September 4, 2007 -- Papa Murphy's International, the world's largest and fastest-growing take 'n' bake pizza chain, has set its sights on Edmonton as a key market for growth. Earlier this year, Papa Murphy's signed an Area Development Agreement with Ananda Holdings Ltd. that includes 17 new stores over the next five years. The first store, to be located at 512 Riverbend Square, is scheduled to open September 20. One more location is slated to open before the end of 2007. Papa Murphy's currently operates six stores in Vancouver, B.C. "Born and raised in Edmonton, I am very excited to introduce take 'n' bake pizza - the best in the industry - to my hometown," said Cam Weichel, V.P. Operations at Ananda Holdings. "Get ready to have a new favorite pizza, Edmonton. The Papa Murphy's Take 'N' Bake Pizza revolution has arrived! Our customers get the satisfaction of making something at home with the flexibility of preparing it quickly. We offer fresh, delicious meals that are ready whenever our customers want them. Beyond the great food and value, we're also creating new employment opportunities in the Edmonton area." When all 17 stores are open, Papa Murphy's will be one of the largest pizza chains in Edmonton. About Take 'N' Bake Papa Murphy's empowers its patrons. Not only do they decide which fresh, high-quality ingredients top their pizza, but customers have the pleasure of baking it right in their own ovens for a piping hot delicious meal whenever they want. The dough is prepared daily in neighbourhood stores using high protein flour. Each pizza features fresh ingredients, including 100 percent all-natural, whole-milk mozzarella, cheddar and provolone cheeses. Real meat toppings, with no fillers, include savory Canadian Ham and premium salami, pepperoni, Italian sausage and ground beef. Other toppings, including fresh Roma tomatoes, whole mushrooms, green peppers and onions, are sliced and diced daily. Additional specialties include garden, club and Italian salads, and even desserts, like the cinnamon wheel and chocolate chip cookie dough. About Papa Murphy's Papa Murphy's Makes Inc. 5,000 List VANCOUVER, Wash. - August 27, 2007 -- Inc. magazine has ranked Papa Murphy's International No. 3,673 on its first-ever Inc. 5,000 list of the fastest-growing private companies in the country. The take 'n' bake pizza pioneer also took a place on the magazine's list of the Top 100 Food & Beverage Companies. Papa Murphy's, now the fifth-largest pizza chain in the country, is widely acknowledged for excellence in value, quality, variety, service and convenience. As such, consumers just voted the company Best Pizza Chain in America1 for the fifth consecutive year. The Inc. 5,000, an extension of Inc. magazine's annual Inc. 500 list, catches many businesses that are too big to grow at the pace required to make the Inc. 500, as well as a host of smaller firms. Taken as a whole, these companies represent the backbone of the U.S. economy. "The Inc. 5,000 provides the most comprehensive look ever at the most important part of the economy - the entrepreneurial part," said Inc. 5,000 Project Manager Jim Melloan. "The expansion of the list has allowed us to tell the stories of larger companies, older companies, and a wealth of companies in industries like Manufacturing and Construction that are underreported in the business media." According to Clarice Turner, president and COO of Papa Murphy's, making the Inc. 5,000 list is just icing on the cake. "We've had many reasons to celebrate this past month. For the fifth year in a row our customers have named us Best Pizza Chain in America1; we opened our 1,000th store on August 1st in our newest market - San Antonio; and we reached new heights in our category - we're now the fifth largest pizza company in the country based on U.S. locations. The party continues with this accolade. It's quite an exciting time in the company's history." The 2007 Inc. 5,000, as revealed online at www.inc.com, reported median revenue of $9.4 million and median three-year growth of 140 percent. Complete information on this year's Inc. 5,000, can be found at www.inc.com/inc5000. The list features a profile for each company, almost all of them written as a result of Inc. interviews with management. In addition, the list is searchable according to numerous criteria, including industry, city, state, region, and year founded. Methodology About Inc.com About Papa Murphy's Papa Murphy's Celebrates 1,000 Stores VANCOUVER, Wash. - August 14, 2007 -- Thanks to over 400 devoted franchisees, nearly 15,000 employees chain wide, and millions of pizza lovers, award-winning Papa Murphy's International is celebrating the opening of its 1,000th location. Not only has Papa Murphy's remained the undisputed category leader in the take 'n' bake segment, but the chain has taken the entire pizza industry by storm, becoming the fifth largest chain in the country based on number of U.S. locations. Papa Murphy's is widely acknowledged for excellence in value, quality, variety, service and convenience. As such, consumers just voted the company "Best Pizza Chain in America"1 for the fifth consecutive year. "The list of restaurant chains that has grown to 1,000 units is a relatively short one, and we're proud to be in the company of many of our industry's leaders," said John Barr, CEO of Papa Murphy's. "The milestones we reach - from "Best Pizza Chain in America," to our Canadian expansion, to becoming a top-five player in the U.S. - continue to demonstrate the vitality of this brand." The 1,000th Papa Murphy's store is located in San Antonio, a new market for the company. Earlier this year Papa Murphy's signed an Area Development Agreement with Pizza Makers of San Antonio, Inc. to open 16 stores over the next four years. Owner Rip Patel is honored to initiate the celebration. "We were just excited to introduce San Antonio to the concept; being the 1,000th store brings on a whole new level of excitement," said Patel. About Papa Murphy's Papa Murphy's Remains Best Pizza Chain in America VANCOUVER, Wash. - July 31, 2007 -- The "Best Pizza Chain in America" award, as voted by consumers, has extended its four-year-long stay at Papa Murphy's Take 'N' Bake for one more year. Today Restaurants & Institutions magazine released the results of its annual Consumers' Choice in Chains survey, naming Papa Murphy's International as the Platinum award winner... for the fifth year in a row! In the R & I survey, more than 3,100 consumers were asked to rate nearly 120 chain restaurants on eight customer satisfaction attributes: food quality, menu variety, value, service, atmosphere, cleanliness, reputation and convenience. "Year after year we continue to challenge our franchisees to reach for higher levels of quality and consistency throughout the system," said John Barr, CEO at Papa Murphy's. "This award is a great testimony to their efforts. I'm very proud of everyone in the Papa Murphy's family for evolving this brand into what it is today." Now in its 27th year, the Restaurant &Institutions Consumers' Choice in Chains award is recognized as a key measure of success by restaurant chains across the country. "The award is a people's choice award that conveys to the industry and beyond, which restaurants have earned consistent business and guest loyalty, and why," said Patricia Dailey, editor-in-chief of Restaurants & Institutions. About Restaurants & Institutions About Papa Murphy's Papa Murphy's Partners with Traeger Pellet Grills VANCOUVER, Wash. - (July 10, 2007) - In an effort to demonstrate the ease and flavorful taste of Papa Murphy's pizza fresh off a backyard grill, the company has partnered with Traeger Pellet Grills, LLC, an Oregon-based manufacturer of handcrafted wood pellet grills. From July 15 through August 28, Papa Murphy's Portland-Vancouver-area locations, 79 in total, will be displaying Traeger's most popular grill, the Lil' Tex ($699, suggested retail price), and consumers will be able to register to win those grills via an in-store sweepstakes. In addition, selected locations across the area will have a second grill on hand for baking pizzas and providing free samples. "Traeger wood pellet grills cook at a controlled temperature and with indirect heat; therefore, baking a Papa Murphy's pizza is fast, predictable and simple," said Bruce Bjorkman, director of marketing at Traeger. "We've been grilling Papa Murphy's pizzas for some time now and are excited to share it with a larger audience." About Traeger Pellet Grills, LLC About Papa Murphy's Papa Murphy's Partners With Borders for Children's Literacy this July and August for children 16 and under
SEATTLE, Wash., July 2, 2007: Papa Murphy's Seattle franchisees have partnered with Borders bookstores and Entercom Communications Corporation in Seattle to promote children's literacy with the "BOOK Your Summer" reading program. This marks the take ‘n' bake pizza chains' first foray into partnership with Borders. Together, the two will encourage children in the Puget Sound Region to read by offering free pizzas and a chance to win prizes including the highly-anticipated new Harry Potter and The Deathly Hallows book or a year of free pizzas from Papa Murphy's. About Papa Murphy's About Borders, Inc. Papa Murphy's Launches Taco Grande Pizza VANCOUVER, Wash. - April 24, 2007 - The "Best Pizza Chain in America"1 is channeling south-of-the-border flavors just in time for Cinco De Mayo with the introduction of the Taco Grande Pizza. This fiesta of flavor, found only at Papa Murphy's, evoked so much customer enthusiasm when tested that the company today announced it will roll out the Taco Grande systemwide beginning April 30. "This is a standout product that has resonated with both pizza lovers and Mexican food fans," said Mark Strickler, vice president of brand marketing at Papa Murphy's. "In fact, reception to the Taco Grande during its test was so outstanding that many stores had record sales. Consumers have told us that we have yet another great-tasting pizza at a fantastic price." The Taco Grande starts with Papa Murphy's freshly-made Original Crust, which is then topped with a delicious refried bean and salsa blend. Next, generous portions of 100 percent real mozzarella and taco-seasoned ground beef are garnished with Roma tomatoes, black olives and green onions. Finally, the pizza is topped off with freshly grated cheddar cheese. Papa Murphy's pizzas are always made fresh daily - never frozen. Like Papa Murphy's other signature pizzas, the Taco Grande takes 12-18 minutes to bake in customers' home ovens. About Papa Murphy's Papa Murphy's Appoints Clarice Turner as President and COO VANCOUVER, Wash. - April 17, 2007 - Papa Murphy's International, pioneer of the world's largest and fastest-growing take-n-bake pizza chain, today announced the hiring of Clarice Turner to the position of President and Chief Operating Officer, effective May 14. Papa Murphy's currently operates close to 1,000 locations in 30 states and Canada. Clarice joins Papa Murphy's following a highly-respected 16-year stint with Yum! Brands, where she progressed rapidly through a variety of executive management positions with its subsidiary Taco Bell Corporation. Most recently Clarice spearheaded national initiatives to address improving the chain's systems, processes and new products as well as contributing in the areas of margin improvement analysis and brand communications. She began her career with Yum! as a fast-track market manager in Seattle accountable for Taco Bell locations in Washington and Sacramento, California and was rapidly promoted to lead all aspects of Taco Bell's emerging business as an expatriate in Canada. Upon her return to the U.S., Clarice was appointed to lead operations for eight western states. In addition to her work with the Taco Bell brand she was also instrumental in establishing standards for successful operation of multi-branded Taco Bell, KFC, Pizza Hut and Long John Silvers locations. Her previous experience while earning her undergraduate and graduate degrees included international sales and marketing and a stint as a financial controller. "We are excited about Clarice joining our senior management team, bringing to Papa Murphy's her strong background and broad experience in the QSR industry," said John Barr, Papa Murphy's CEO. "She has proven to be a respected leader and one that leads by example thus earning the confidence and trust of her co-workers and Yum! Brands' franchisee community." Clarice attended Fudan University in Shanghai, China and the University of International Business and Economics in Beijing, earning her undergraduate degree in Geology from San Francisco State University. She later also earned an M.B.A. from San Francisco State University. Clarice currently serves as Board President of Washington State University's Advisory Board for the School of Hospitality where she's been a member of the Board since 1994. About Papa Murphy's PAPA MURPHY'S NAMES VICTORIA BLACKWELL AS GENERAL COUNSEL VANCOUVER, Wash. - March 6, 2007 -- Papa Murphy's International, pioneer of the world's largest and fastest-growing take-n-bake pizza chain, announced today that Victoria Blackwell has been named general counsel. Blackwell has been with Papa Murphy's as the company's corporate attorney since 2000. Most recently, Blackwell was responsible for leading Papa Murphy's expansion into British Columbia where the company currently operates five stores and plans to open 11 more by year's end. Blackwell also oversees all legal aspects of franchisor/franchisee agreements, as Papa Murphy's currently maintains over 400 franchisees nationwide. Blackwell has remained with the company for nearly seven years because of its enthusiastic franchisee community, strong corporate values and superior quality product. "I am proud to be part of a company whose products encourage family, friends and fun. We still get excited for pizza night at our house and it's been a pleasure to help bring that excitement into others' homes." Blackwell is a graduate of Marquette University in Milwaukee, Wisconsin and received her law degree from Lewis and Clark University's Northwest School of Law in Portland, Ore. About Papa Murphy's PAPA MURPHY'S MAKES CANADIAN DEBUT VANCOUVER, British Columbia - February 13, 2007 - Papa Murphy's, the world's largest and fastest growing take-and-bake chain, has opened five locations in the Vancouver area with plans for a total of 16 locations by 2008. With nearly one thousand locations poised to meet today's fluctuating meal schedules, Papa Murphy's is widely acknowledged by consumers for excellence in value, quality, variety, service and convenience. The company was voted "Best Pizza Chain in America" for four consecutive years by consumers in the Restaurants and Institutions "Consumers' Choice in Chains" survey and was recently named Pizza Today's "2006 Chain of the Year." Papa Murphy's empowers its patrons. Not only do they decide which fresh, high-quality ingredients top their pizza, but customers have the pleasure of baking it right in their own ovens for a piping hot delicious meal whenever they want. The dough is prepared daily in neighbourhood stores using high protein flour. Each pizza features fresh ingredients, including 100 percent all-natural, whole-milk mozzarella, cheddar and provolone cheeses. Real meat toppings, with no fillers, include savory Canadian Ham and premium salami, pepperoni, Italian sausage and ground beef. Other toppings, including fresh Roma tomatoes, whole mushrooms, green peppers and onions, are sliced and diced daily. Tom Lovelace, store owner, is excited about Canada's reaction to the product. "Word is starting to spread and we've already built a loyal following. Nothing compares to the taste of a pizza fresh out of your own oven," said Lovelace. Additional specialties include garden, club and Italian salads, and even desserts, like the cinnamon wheel and chocolate chip cookie dough. Papa Murphy's menu items are prepared by hand in the restaurant and baked fresh at home so they're always hot and delicious. Papa Murphy's stores are located at:
About Papa Murphy's PAPA MURPHY'S HELPS PARENTS SAY "I LOVE YOU" THIS VALENTINE'S DAY VANCOUVER, Wash. - February 6, 2007 - The babysitter's booked, dinner reservations are made, now what to do for the kids? Papa Murphy's International, voted "Best Pizza Chain in America" four years running, has a simple, heart-felt solution: A heart-shaped pizza. Back by popular demand, Papa Murphy's Take 'N' Bake heart-shaped pizzas are a perfect way for parents to express their love on Valentine's Day, especially when leaving the kids for a night on the town. Papa Murphy's heart-shaped pizzas, topped with freshly grated cheese and loads of pepperoni , will be offered on Tuesday, February 13 and Wednesday, February 14. Prices start at $5.99 for a large size. In order to get a jump on the heart-shaped holiday the pizzas can also be pre-ordered in many locations. Participation varies nationwide. "Kids love pizza; kids love Valentine's Day," said Mark Strickler vice president of brand marketing at Papa Murphy's. "This is a unique way to say Happy Valentine's Day. Whether parents are heading out for the evening or celebrating at home with the family, heart-shaped pizzas are a fun addition to any Valentine's Day gathering." About Papa Murphy's:
Papa Murphy's is the sixth-largest pizza chain in the country and the pioneer of the Take 'N' Bake pizza concept. Papa Murphy's operates nearly 1,000 locations in 29 states and Canada. The Vancouver, Wash.-based company offers custom-made pizzas featuring high-quality fresh toppings generously layered on pizza dough that is made fresh each morning in each store. Papa Murphy's pizzas are baked at home in customers' ovens for a piping hot, delicious meal whenever they want it. In addition to handmade pizzas, the company offers a growing menu of Take 'N' Bake items, including cheesy bread, lasagna, chocolate chip cookie dough and freshly-made salads. Papa Murphy's has been voted "Best Pizza Chain in America" for four consecutive years by consumers nationwide in the Restaurants and Institutions "Consumers' Choice in Chains" survey and was recently named Pizza Today's "2006 Chain of the Year." For more information, visit www.papamurphys.com. PAPA MURPHY'S TAKE 'N' BAKE PIZZA ANNOUNCES 25TH ANNIVERSARY VANCOUVER , Wash. , Sept. 11, 2006 - Papa Murphy's Take 'N' Bake Pizza is celebrating its 25 th anniversary! And the chain has a lot to celebrate, including two prestigious awards, international expansion and remodeled stores. Two awards recognized Papa Murphy's as an outstanding pizza chain. Consumers voted the company "Best Pizza Chain in America " for the fourth year in a row in Restaurants & Institutions magazine's annual "Choice in Chains" survey. Voters rated eight attributes including value, quality, variety, service and convenience. In addition, Pizza Today named Papa Murphy's "2006 Chain of the Year," recognizing the company for making strides in areas including unit and same-store sales growth, marketing initiatives, leadership, menu development and store design. Papa Murphy's, which also won in 2001, is the first two-time recipient of the award. "We are proud of our 2006 accomplishments," says John Barr, chief executive officer. "It's an honor that the pizza industry and - most importantly - consumers are recognizing and rewarding Papa Murphy's. Our ability to offer high quality and great value to our customers is directly linked to the outstanding operators who represent our brand in their stores every day." The awards aren't the chain's only exciting accomplishments this year. The first international Papa Murphy's location opened in Vancouver , British Columbia , this summer, and five more will open in Canada by year-end. Finally, over 90 percent of the chain's units are being updated with a new look that includes warmer interior colors, a new make-line system and menu boards, and self-service merchandising of add-on products. About Papa Murphy's: Papa Murphy's International is the sixth-largest pizza chain in America and pioneered the Take 'N' Bake pizza concept. With nearly 1,000 locations in 30 states and Canada , the Vancouver, Wash.-based company offers custom-made pizzas featuring high-quality fresh toppings generously layered on pizza dough that is made fresh each morning in each store. Papa Murphy's pizzas are baked at home in customers' ovens for a piping hot, delicious meal whenever they want it. In addition to handmade pizzas, the company offers a growing menu of Take 'N' Bake items, including cheesy bread, lasagna, chocolate chip cookie dough, dessert pizzas and cinnamon rolls, as well as freshly made salads. For more information, visit www.papamurphys.com. PAPA MURPHY'S VOTED "BEST PIZZA CHAIN IN AMERICA" FOR 3RD YEAR IN A ROW BY CONSUMERS NATIONWIDE VANCOUVER, Wash. - For the third year in a row, American consumers have voted Papa Murphy's "Best Pizza Chain in America" in the annual "Consumers' Choice in Chains" survey, conducted by Restaurants & Institutions magazine. Papa Murphy's, the world's largest and fastest-growing take-and-bake pizza chain, was awarded top honors (or a Platinum Award) in the pizza category. The Consumers' Choice in Chains survey is commissioned annually by Restaurants & Institutions and is conducted by the Reed Research Group. According to Restaurants & Institutions , "more than 2,600 consumers rated 123 chains on eight important attributes of guest satisfaction. Scores for each attribute - food quality, service, convenience, cleanliness, value, atmosphere, menu variety and reputation - were then weighted to create an overall score." As in 2003 and 2004, Papa Murphy's received extremely high marks in each attribute area in the 2005 survey. The sample for the study mirrors the American population at large, making survey results projectable on a national level. "We are so gratified and pleased that American consumers have once again name us 'Best Pizza Chain in America'," says Jeff Hill, chief strategic officer for Papa Murphy's. "This award is a testament to our outstanding owners and franchisees, and our overall commitment as a company to offer the highest quality products at a great value for today's busy families. We look forward to bringing our fresh ingredients and unique take-and-bake concept to more of the nation as we expand to more than 900 stores this year." Papa Murphy's is enjoying strong sales around the country and growth in several key markets, including Detroit, Michigan; Dallas, Texas; and Columbus, Ohio. Headquartered in Vancouver, Washington, the pioneer of the take-and-bake pizza concept also has a strong presence in the Pacific Northwest, Northern California and the Midwest. The company is currently launching a new Sicilian Pan Pizza - which tested extremely well with consumers -- as well as take-and-bake Cinnamon Rolls, also proven to be very popular in test markets. "As we grow our chain and expand our menu, our focus will continue to be bringing our customers the delicious, high-quality take-and-bake menu items and meal solutions they've come to love," says Hill. "And throughout the next year, you can bet we'll be doing our very best to garner a fourth consecutive 'Best Pizza Chain in America' award." About Papa Murphy's. Papa Murphy's is the sixth-largest pizza chain in the country and the pioneer of the Take 'N' Bake pizza concept. Nearly 900 Papa Murphy's locations operate in 29 states, and the company plans to open 70 additional restaurants in 2005. The Vancouver, Wash.-based company offers custom-made pizzas on dough that is made fresh each day and generously layered with the highest quality fresh toppings to ensure a superior tasting product. Made-to-order in each store, Papa Murphy's pizzas are baked at home in your oven for a piping hot, delicious product whenever you want it. In addition to its pizza products, the company offers a wide spectrum of Take 'N' Bake food - including cheesy bread, chocolate chip cookie dough and dessert pizzas, as well as salads. New products are constantly in development. Papa Murphy's has been selected "Best Pizza Chain in America" for the last three years by Restaurants and Institutions " Consumers' Choice in Chains" survey. For more information, visit www.papamurphys.com . PAPA MURPHY'S ANNOUNCES APPOINTMENT OF NEW CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Papa Murphy's proudly announces the appointment of new Chief Executive Officer and the addition of Chief Strategic Officer to help lead chain through rapid expansion. PAPA MURPHY'S OFFERS FLAVORS "FOUR" THE WHOLE FAMILY Take 'N' Bake chain's new Awesome Foursome pizza pleases every palate Vancouver, Wash. - Papa Murphy's Take 'N' Bake Pizza, the world's largest and fastest growing take-and-bake pizza chain, launched a four-sectioned pizza on Oct. 1. The new Awesome Foursome, priced at $8.99 for a family size, is a fast, delicious way to feed the whole family, and is perfectly timed to give customers something new to try during October's National Pizza Month. "The Awesome Foursome gives busy households the variety
they crave in an easy meal solution," said Doug Collins,
vice president of research and development. "Papa
Murphy's pizza is always fresh, always ready when
you are, and always hot from your oven. Our new Awesome
Foursome is no exception!"
Papa Murphy's Launches Awesome Foursome
With four different toppings available, one pizza will
please the whole family. Papa Murphy's other great-tasting
take-and-bake menu items, such as salads, pasta, lasagna
and cookie dough, mean that it's easy to put together
a complete family meal in a flash - at home, whenever
it's convenient. PAPA MURPHY'S VOTED BEST PIZZA CHAIN IN AMERICA Take 'N' Bake pioneer once again recognized with "Consumers' Choice in Chains" award from Restaurants and Institutions magazine Vancouver, Wash. - Papa Murphy's Take 'N' Bake Pizza, the world's largest and fastest growing take-and-bake pizza chain, has once again been voted best pizza chain in America. For the second straight year, the restaurant received the Consumers' Choice in Chains award from Restaurants and Institutions magazine. Rankings are based on guest responses to eight attributes: food quality, menu variety, value, reputation, service, atmosphere, cleanliness and convenience. Respondents rated 200 of the largest chains in the nation and Papa Murphy's received the highest overall score in the pizza segment. "We're honored that our customers have ranked us so highly for another year," said President Mark Laramie. "In February we launched our Thin Crust deLITE with ½ the carbs and ½ the calories of our traditional pizza, and we've also opened almost 100 of our newly redesigned stores that showcase our superior pizza quality and freshness. These kinds of programs demonstrate our ongoing effort to give customers the best experience possible whenever they visit any Papa Murphy's location." Restaurants and Institutions conducts the Consumers' Choice in Chains survey on an annual basis in conjunction with Reed Research Group. To gauge guest loyalty, respondents who have patronized a chain in the past year are asked whether they would go back, and are able to rank the restaurant on the eight attributes listed above. The survey found that 85 percent of Papa Murphy's guests would return to the chain, and that the restaurant led the pizza category in six of the eight criteria. "The timing of this announcement comes at an important juncture for us, as we have significant expansion plans currently underway in new markets," said Peter Fowler, vice president of business development. "In the near future we will be awarding both multi-unit and individual franchises in Southern California and the Southwest US, Texas and the South Central states, the Mid-Atlantic states and some markets in the Southeast. National recognition like the Consumers' Choice in Chains award helps new customers in these communities know that they can rely on Papa Murphy's for superior quality pizza." About Papa Murphy's Papa Murphy's Appoints Jerry Kenney to Senior Vice President of Corporate Operations Papa Murphy's International is pleased to announce the promotion of Jerry Kenney to Senior Vice President of Corporate Operations. In this new position, Jerry will oversee all operations groups, including the Western and Midwestern Regions, Business Services, Non-Traditional Operations and the Company Store Division. Company President, Mark Laramie, stated that Jerry has faithfully and competently served the Papa Murphy's System and its franchisees dating back to its beginning when he was the President of Papa Aldos. Throughout his tenure, Jerry has displayed the ability to manage a dynamic and diverse range of objectives and has continuously proven his value to our company. We are very proud of Jerry's accomplishments and we are happy to recognize him for his efforts with this well deserved promotion. As we grow into a fully national chain our operational needs will be well served by Jerry's dedication and experience. Please join us in offering your congratulations and support to Jerry in his new role. Papa Murphy's Appoints Stephanie Mehta to Vice President of Business Services Papa Murphy's International is pleased to announce the promotion of Stephanie Mehta to Vice President of Business Services. In her new position Stephanie will expand her responsibilities to include the oversight and direction of Training, Non-Traditional Systems, Operations Services, Corporate Communications, Customer Services and Government Relations. Company President, Mark Laramie states that Stephanie has displayed the ability, foresight and commitment to manage the very diverse operational systems' needs of our company. Stephanie's competence and experience in program and systems design and management have been strong factors in our progress toward becoming a national chain. Please join us in congratulating Stephanie on a well deserved promotion. PAPA MURPHY'S
RECAPITALIZED BY CHARLESBANK CAPITAL PARTNERS Vancouver, Wash. - Papa Murphy's Take 'N' Bake Pizza, the world's largest and fastest growing take-and-bake pizza chain, announces its recapitalization by Charlesbank Capital Partners. The partnership with the Boston-based private equity investment firm with more than $1 billion of capital under management will boost Papa Murphy's already vigorous expansion plans. "The take-and-bake concept has tremendous potential, and we are the leader in the field," says Papa Murphy's Chairman and CEO Terry Collins. "We are very excited about our new relationship with Charlesbank. The recapitalization, combined with the strength of our existing franchise network and management team, will really help to step-up our growth plans." With 75 new stores set to open this year, and 200 more locations under development, Papa Murphy's will reach the 1,000 store mark. This growth can be directly attributed to an increase in multi-unit and individual owner operators, new territories, increased units in existing markets and comparable store sales trending up double digits throughout second quarter, 2004. "A significant element of Papa Murphy's future growth strategy will be non-traditional locations such as grocery stores, retail outlets and military bases," says Peter Fowler, vice president of business development. "Although we are in the early stages of development, moving into these areas has proven to be a perfect match for our concept, our non-traditional partners and most importantly our customers. Expanding Papa Murphy's points of distribution in this way will compliment our successful growth with traditional retail locations," he adds. Terry Collins formed Papa Murphy's in 1995 when he merged Petaluma, Calif.-based Murphy's Pizza (54 stores) with Hillsboro, Ore.-based Aldo's Pizza (86 stores). Priding itself on always using the freshest ingredients and delivering outstanding value to consumers, Papa Murphy's has experienced significant growth in recent years as more consumers have taken to the idea of ordering a customized pizza that they can cook at home. About Papa Murphy's |