Papa Johns Barnstaple among 13 stores closed as franchisee dropped

Papa Johns has confirmed that its Barnstaple branch is among 13 stores to close after it ended its relationship with a franchisee operating across the South West and beyond.

The Gazette understands staff were not given prior notice, and say they remain unclear about their employment status or whether they will be paid for past shifts.

The closures, which include stores in Newquay, Torquay, Newton Abbot, Exmouth, and several in Plymouth, follow a "thorough review" by the company.

A Papa Johns spokesperson told the Gazette: “We hold all our restaurants to the highest standards and expect our franchisees to operate with integrity and in line with our values. Following a thorough review, we have ended our relationship with this franchisee. 

"While the stores are temporarily closed, we are working to secure new ownership and reopen as soon as possible. Our priority is delivering quality pizza and a great experience for our customers, while supporting our teams through this transition.”

The Barnstaple store on Boutport Street is currently listed as “temporarily closed” on Google. Employees claim they were informed of the closure via a message from franchise owner Jabbar Mumtaz.

Cassie Smitherson, who works at the Torquay branch, told the Gazette: “None of us were given any notice. We’ve had no confirmation about whether we’ll be paid for the work we’ve already done, and we don’t know where we stand. It’s left us completely in the dark and extremely worried.”

Mr Mumtaz, a London-based businessman, was reported to have acquired the Devon and Cornwall Papa Johns franchise in late 2023 after the previous operator went bust.

The 13 stores currently listed as temporarily closed are:

• Barnstaple
• Newquay
• Torquay
• Newton Abbot
• Exmouth
• Plymouth – Mutley Plain
• Plymouth – St Budeaux
• Plymouth – Woolwell
• Exeter – St Thomas
• Paignton
• Bristol – Filton
• Stroud
• Cirencester