February 20 2016, 12.47 PM IST || Pocket News Alert
In Pic: Actor Sidharth, Anil Srinivasan Leading Pianist, Joseph Cherian CEO Papa John's.
Papa John’s lends a helping hand to a recuperating Chennai
Actor Siddharth and Pianist Anil Srinivasan unveil the Donation Box and announce the Rock n Roll concert.
The 2015 floods were devastating, throwing life in disarray in Chennai and its surrounding region. Over 18 lakh people were displaced, more than 500 lost their lives and loss of property was in excess of INR 50,000 crores. Such a loss is colossal to cope with, even for a city as progressive as Chennai.
Every form of help goes a long way in bringing relief to people who are still coping with the calamity. One of the biggest areas where work is needed is rehabilitation of those who lost their homes. Several generous individuals and companies are coming together in lending Chennai a hand. Papa John’s, a much-loved global pizza brand, has stepped in with its unique initiative that is sure to bring smiles on the faces of many.
Papa John’s announced its association with an extensive donation drive on Thursday to organize monetary aid for the victims. In association with ACE Events, the program aspires to lend a helping hand with music. Up to March 26, Papa John’s will collect financial donations across its Chennai outlets via a Drop Box placed in all stores. The massive drive will culminate on March 26 at the Rock n Roll concert at the Music Academy where the proceeds will be handed over to the recipients.
At the unveiling of the Drop Box & Concert were Joseph Cherian – CEO, Papa John’s India;JayashreeChinne and LathaDubay from ACE Events and Celebrity Management.Actor Siddharth and Anil Srinivasan who worked relentlessly during the floods to bring respite to thousands, was present too lending their support. The strong team brings to the table their strengths of deep knowledge of the situation, wide network and passionate people who are determined to make many lives better.
Announcing the program, Mr. Joseph Cherian, CEO – Papa John’s said, “Papa John’s has always believed in giving back to society in every way possible. The floods were heartbreaking to see, with such extensive damage and losses. We are delighted to partner with Siddharth, ACE Events,and Rotary who feel as strongly about this as us. Our wide network in Chennai, with outlets across the length and breadth, will help us give the plan a huge infrastructural boost. It’s our way of giving back to the city that has always showered us with so much love!”
Actor Siddharth, who feels strongly about the cause, said, “What happened in Chennai was sad. This is my home and I felt it was my responsibility to help in every way I could. I’ve seen the situation on the ground level at very close quarters and I’m still monitoring it. There’s a lot of need for many things, even now. I am proud to associate myself with Papa John’s,ACE Events and Rotary Club to help Chennai. Each step is important. I am sure that together, we will be able to make a big difference.”
Latha from Ace Events was very proud of the ambitious plan they’ve set up.According to her, “Ever since the floods, we have been maximum efforts to help the victims in any way we could. What began as tiny steps gradually turned into an organized effort, with socially aware brands such as Papa John’s showing faith and coming on board. With their robust support, the donation drive gets some much-needed muscle. We plan to hand over all the financial aid to the beneficiaries on March 26, the day of the Rock n Roll concert. The audience will get to witness spellbinding performances from renowned artistes such as UshaUthup& Anil Srinivasan. We hope the enthralling evening and the handing over of the proceeds will help spread joy and contribute towards the betterment of the affected areas and people.”
Anil Srinivasan said, “We have been committed to making the world a better place by streamlining resources and help for those in need. We’ve been working for the victims right from the day the floods hit and are grateful to Ace Events, Papa John’s and Siddharth to support with such a massive relief effort. It is sure to help alleviate the pains of many affected people. We will ensure it reaches the right recipients.”
This initiative is a great effort towards relief of the Chennai flood victims. On March 26, the Rock n Roll concert at the Music Academy would sing its way into the hearts of the audience as well as victims. A unique initiative with a widespread reach and committed team, this is sure to make a positive impact in several lives. Chennai’s heart will be warmed with some rock n roll this March!
Future Plans of PAPA JOHN’s
1. Expansion plans- We plan to touch the 100 stores mark this calendar year. Which means a healthy opening of 30 stores. Thereon, our plan is keep growing our store numbers by 25 to 30% yoy
2. Investment- Cannot be disclosed
3. Marketing plans & budgets- Significant investments will be done on marketing in 3 arenas- 1. Create Awareness about the brand 2. New store opening Marketing in the cities 3. Marketing new and innovative products
4. Geographical expansion- Our focus remains with South and west for the time being.
5. New category launches- We would continue with our endeavor to provide great tasting pizzas and unique flavors. We have seen success in flavours like Curry and Zaffran in the recent times and will continue making creating unique flavours for our consumers.
