Global Pizza Chain Papa John's Expands Nairobi Presence With New Lavington and Thika Road Outlets

By Magdalene Wanja - Reporter

Kenya, 28 January 2026 - The start of 2026 has brought renewed activity across the retail landscape, with both local and international brands returning to the market in pursuit of stronger momentum.

Among them is global pizza chain Papa John’s, which on Wednesday announced new outlets after two years of operating in Kenya.

The expansion signals a renewed focus on fresh ingredients and improved neighborhood reach, anchored by new outlets in Lavington and along Thika Road.

Supported by a growing store network and a convenience-led retail strategy, the brand is using its latest locations at Shell service stations to reflect shifting consumer expectations in Nairobi, where accessibility now matters just as much as quality and consistency.

Papa John’s expansion in Kenya is designed to raise brand visibility and fast-track growth across the capital.

Currently, Papa John’s Kenya serves customers from outlets in Westlands, Kilimani, Ruaka, Narok, South C, Parklands, Spring Valley, and Karen, with Lavington and Thika Road among its newest additions.

By situating stores in high-traffic locations such as petrol station retail hubs, the brand is aligning itself with everyday urban routines shaped by long commutes, busy schedules, and the demand for dependable meal options on the go.

According to the company, these locations are part of a broader approach to meeting customers where they already are, within residential neighborhoods, along major commuter corridors, and at routine stop-points,without compromising the experience associated with the Papa John’s name.

In Kenya, the brand is also reframing its well-known “better ingredients” promise as an operational standard rather than a slogan, pointing to behind-the-scenes processes that influence the end product.

“Our quality begins with the fundamentals,” said Olivia Oeri, Operations Lead at Papa John’s Kenya. “We prepare our dough fresh in-store, invest heavily in food safety training, and adhere to strict product specifications across all outlets to ensure customers enjoy the same Papa John’s taste every time.”

Its signature garlic dipping sauce and pepperoncini, which accompany every pizza, gives the product an edge over rivals.

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Locally, two menu favourites—Spicy Chicken Ranch and Super Papa—continue to stand out among Kenyan customers.

As consumer awareness around food handling and delivery grows, Papa John’s Kenya says it is prioritising trust through operational discipline, staff training, and visible safeguards.

“One of the clearest ways to build confidence is to protect the product from the moment it leaves our store,” Oeri added.

“That’s why all delivery orders are sealed, giving customers peace of mind that their food arrives intact and untampered.”

The brand also notes its halal-friendly approach as part of its commitment to inclusivity and consistency across its outlets.

Beyond food, Papa John’s is tapping into the social and emotional role pizza plays in daily life, particularly among families and younger consumers.

“Pizza brings people together,” said the Express Kitchen Director at Papa John's, Ms Ayan Ali.

“It’s how friends catch up, families connect, and colleagues unwind. ‘Better Together’ speaks to creating more shared moments, around the table, during spontaneous stops on the way home, and in everyday gatherings.”