New franchise agreements underscore demand for an innovative dual-brand model that combines Take 'n' Bake pizza with premium frozen yogurt

VANCOUVER, Wash., Oct. 7, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Papa Murphy's has signed three franchise agreements to bring its new Papa Murphy's and Pinkberry co-brand concept to incoming markets, marking another milestone in the company's franchise development strategy and introducing an innovative model designed to maximize efficiency and guest appeal.

The co-brand concept pairs Papa Murphy's, the nation's largest Take 'n' Bake pizza brand, with Pinkberry, the iconic premium frozen yogurt brand, creating a complementary food and dessert destination under one roof. The model is designed to provide franchisees with multiple revenue streams while leveraging shared real estate, labor and operational efficiencies.

The new franchise locations span multiple states. Joshua and Samantha Kimzey will open their first location in both systems in Sunriver, Oregon, with an anticipated opening in early November. Longtime franchisee John Perea will add a Pinkberry to his existing Papa Murphy's restaurant in Santa Fe, New Mexico, expanding a location he has owned since 2010. Existing franchisee Casey Kauer, who operates five Papa Murphy's restaurants in Utah, is also expanding with a new co-branded location in West Haven, Utah, scheduled to open in summer 2027.

"The early responses to our co-brand concept reinforce the strength of these brands individually and the even greater potential they have together," said Ray Zandi, vice president of U.S. development at MTY Food Group. "By combining Papa Murphy's and Pinkberry, or sweetFrog or some of the other less labor-intensive concepts, we're creating a differentiated concept that gives owners greater flexibility while delivering a convenient, high-quality experience for guests. These brands in particular pair well together and also offset each other seasonally, which will greatly assist in growth and a faster ROI in the future for candidates that wish to explore co-brands as ways to develop new stores with either brand. It's another example of how we're evolving our franchise portfolio to meet changing consumer preferences and support long-term franchisee success."

This co-brand model is designed to capitalize on consumer demand for convenience while creating synergies through a shared footprint. Guests can enjoy Papa Murphy's signature Take 'n' Bake pizzas alongside Pinkberry's premium frozen yogurt and toppings, offering franchise owners the opportunity to serve multiple occasions throughout the day from a single location.

The concept also reflects the brand's continued commitment to innovation and franchise growth by providing existing and prospective franchisees with flexible development opportunities that support long-term expansion.

"The seasonality of both brands is what made this opportunity stand out to us, since pairing them together creates a business that can gainfully employ eight to 10 team members and thrive all year long," said John Perea, franchisee of Papa Murphy's in Santa Fe, New Mexico "Signing this development agreement gave us real confidence in the future of these two brands, because the co-branding model creates a sustainable path to growth. We couldn't be more excited to bring great products and great service to our community, every season of the year."

"There are the obvious financial benefits, like shared overhead costs and the ability to cross-train employees, but just as valuable is being able to offer something for everyone, at any time of the day. It really becomes a destination. Whether it's kids asking their parents for soft serve, parents solving the 'what's for dinner' dilemma, families picking up food for company, or grabbing a few quarts of soft serve to go with cookie dough — there's something for everyone," said Joshua Kimzey, franchisee of Papa Murphy's and Pinkberry in Sunriver, Oregon.

For more information about franchise opportunities with Papa Murphy's and Pinkberry, visit https://www.papamurphysfranchise.com/.

About Papa Murphy's:
Papa Murphy's International LLC ("Papa Murphy's") is a franchisor and operator of the largest Take 'n' Bake pizza brand in the United States, with nearly 1,000 franchised and corporate-owned locations across the U.S. — plus locations in Canada and the UAE. It's no surprise that their story is a little unconventional. After all, Papa Murphy's brought an entirely new approach to the pizza industry. In addition to Take 'n' Bake pizzas, Papa Murphy's offers a selection of salads, sides, desserts, and kid's options. Learn more and order online https://www.papamurphys.com/.

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SOURCE Papa Murphy's