Papa John’s International has transferred ownership of 28 corporate-operated outlets in the Orlando market to PZZA Group and Magic City Pizzerias, two franchise entities led by operator Wade Oney.

The locations were previously managed directly by Papa Johns USA.

Papa Johns global chief development officer and assistant corporate secretary John Matter said: “Wade and his team have long stood as a leading example to other franchise partners of operational excellence, customer service, team culture and community support.”

The transaction forms part of the chain's wider strategy to shift company-held restaurants to established operating partners.

The refranchising follows an expansion drive by Oney's franchise businesses, which launched ten new branches across Central and South Florida last year. With the latest transaction, Oney’s organisations now control more than 120 Papa Johns outlets.

Oney, who entered the pizza trade in 1981, has held executive posts at several major international pizza chains.

His career includes six years as chief operations officer at Papa Johns, during which the company expanded its global footprint to more than 2,000 restaurants.

Oney said: “Over my 35 years as part of the Papa Johns family, I’ve learned how the brand offers a great place to work, equips franchisees to grow, and overall, presents a solid investment opportunity depending on economic times and how well you operate and take care of the customer."

Recently, Papa Johns appointed KM Capital as its new franchise partner in Mexico. Under the agreement, KM Capital agreed to assume the operations of 44 existing franchised outlets throughout the country.