Papa John's International Inc.
PZZA,
+0.84%
said Thursday that it will offer $50 referral bonuses to team members at company-owned locations who bring in a new hire, and a $50 bonus to the new team member that's brought on board. In addition, existing team members at company-owned locations will be eligible for up to $400 in "appreciation" bonuses through the end of the year. Papa John's also plans to make certain full-time staff investments in "high volume" company-owned stores. The pizza delivery company expects to invest $2.5 million in these new programs through the end of 2021. The company says similar programs are offered through franchisees as well. Papa John's has about 14,000 front-line workers at its company-owned restaurants and through its supply chain. These programs come during a tight labor market. Papa John's stock has gained 23.8% for the year to date while the S&P 500 index
SPX,
-0.79%
has gained 16% for the period.