Papa Johns issue statement as three Bristol branches close suddenly

Three Papa Johns takeaways in Bristol have closed suddenly.

The franchise-owned branches of the chain which have closed are at Imperial Retail Park in Hartcliffe, Simmonds View in Stoke Gifford and Gloucester Road North in Filton.

Signs outside the shops say they have been temporarily shut. And today the situation was confirmed by Papa Johns in a statement which suggests that standards had been compromised.

It said: “Papa Johns has been helping the franchise owner of these independently operated restaurants through a difficult period but certain locations now need to be closed temporarily while some issues are resolved.

“Papa Johns has important operating standards to protect franchisees, team members and customers. If these standards are ever compromised, additional measures need to be taken that can impact a restaurant staying open.

“At this point the timeline for reopening has not been determined. We are hoping to come to a resolution quickly for the benefit of all involved.”

As well as in Bristol, branches have also been closed in Newport and Worcester.

All impacted Bristol branches were given five star food hygiene ratings in their last inspections from Bristol City Council and South Gloucestershire Council.

All Papa Johns restaurants are franchisee owned. There are other branches in Kingswood, Brislington and Montpelier.