Papa John’s stores seek new franchise owner

Papa John’s International says it is looking for new franchise owners to take over the five restaurants in the Rochester area that were closed suddenly Easter Sunday.

“We’re grateful to all of our loyal customers in Rochester and are currently exploring possibilities around new ownership,” read a statement shared by a Papa John’s spokesperson distributed late Monday afternoon. Franchise owner Schuyler J. Lofberg had posted a notice on the stores in Rochester, East Rochester, Fairport, Henrietta and Greece blaming state business climate for the closing.

“It’s come to an abrupt ending due to the heavy headwinds put upon us by New York State. We will not be the last to fall under this current business climate,” the note read in part.

Early Tuesday morning Lofberg responded to an email request for details by saying he’d be happy to talk, but then failed to respond to a request to schedule that discussion.

The corporate spokesperson said closings were limited to the Rochester stores.

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Papa John’s stores close in Rochester area

breakfast-cheese-coca-cola-708587Local Papa John’s pizza restaurants have closed, blaming business conditions in New York.

A note about the closings, dated April 1, was posted on the door of at least one of five local Papa John’s stores, from Schuyler J. Lofberg, “sole member.” He is listed as the owner of the local franchises elsewhere.

“It’s come to an abrupt ending due to the heavy headwinds put upon us by New York State. We will not be the last to fall under this current business climate” the note read in part.

The note also invited inquiries to be sent to [email protected]. An email requesting comment did not elicit an immediate response.

Lofberg has in recent years taken a stand with other business owners against Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s attempts to increase wages for quick service and restaurant workers, among others.

A call to the Maiden Lane, Greece, Papa John’s store was answered by a recorded message saying the store was closed for Easter and will be open for regular hours “tomorrow.” Other Papa John’s stores are located on East Main Street in Rochester, Mount Hope Avenue in Brighton, Fairport Road in East Rochester,  and East Henrietta Road in Henrietta.

[email protected]/(585) 363-7275