Though NBA veteran Shaquille O’Neal left Papa John’s Board of Directors back in May, the pizza chain has teamed up with the basketball star yet again to release the new Shaq-a-Roni Stuffed Sticks.
Just as the name suggests, the new Shaq-a-Roni Stuffed Sticks, are stuffed dough sticks with a pizza-inspired twist. Each order comes with two breadsticks made with Papa Johns’s signature fresh dough, stuffed with pepperoni and melted cheese. Each of the sticks is also finished with a garlic parmesan coating and served with a container of the brand's original pizza sauce on the side as a dip.
The new Shaq-a-Roni Stuffed Sticks are currently only available at select locations in South Carolina, North Dakota, Kentucky, and Illinois.
Stuffed Pizza Sticks
Papa John’s Teamed Up with Shaq to Create the Shaq-a-Roni Stuffed Sticks
Trend Themes
1. Celebrity-endorsed Food Products - Teaming up with high-profile figures like Shaquille O'Neal brings instant brand recognition and a broader consumer reach.
2. Stuffed Appetizers - The trend of stuffing traditional breadsticks with popular pizza ingredients appeals to snack enthusiasts and diversifies menu offerings.
3. Regional Product Testing - Launching limited-time items in select locations allows companies to gauge consumer interest before a nationwide rollout.
Industry Implications
1. Fast Food Chains - Innovative product collaborations help fast-food chains stand out in a saturated market.
2. Celebrity Partnerships - Collaborating with celebrities provides an edge in marketing and can lead to unique, memorable products.
3. Food and Beverage Innovation - Creating hybrid food items taps into the evolving tastes and preferences of modern consumers.