Shaquille O’ Neal has proven that his business acumen is just as dominant as his play on the court. Since his retirement, Shaq has been amassing a business empire. The 4-time NBA champion and Hall of Famer owns 155 Five Guys franchises, several Aunt Annie’s, 40 24 Hour Fitness centers, and has endorsed Fruity Pebbles, Muscle Milk, Vitamin Water, AriZona Cream, Icy Hot, and many more. According to celebritynetworth.com , Shaq is worth $400 million. With such an extensive entrepreneurial background, it makes perfect sense that Papa John would invite Shaq to be the first African American join their board of directors.
“We are thrilled to partner with Shaquille and welcome him to the Papa John’s Board,” said Jeff Smith, Chairman of the Papa John’s Board of Directors. “Shaquille has an excellent entrepreneurial background, including as a restaurant franchise owner, and is a natural creative marketer. Shaquille has demonstrated great success through understanding the customer value proposition with product and brand differentiation. The Board and I are excited to work with Shaquille and look forward to the terrific possibilities to strengthen our position together.”
Papa John’s had been trying to make it things right with Black community ever since founder John H. Schnatter, spoke out against NFL players protesting, which was sparked by Colin Kaepernick. Since then, Papa John’s generously donated money to the HBCU, Bennett College, who on the brink of closing its doors, so they could stay open. And now with the addition of Shaq, it seems to be another step in the right direction for a company that needs to repair its image with the Africana American consumer base. Bringing Shaw onto the board directors is another sign of good faith by Papa John’s Inc.
Congratulations to Shaq and wish much more success.
