THE YOUNGEST Papa Johns franchisee has reopened a popular takeaway in Kidderminster.

Pavanjot Dhillon, aged just 21, has taken over Papa Johns on Coventry Street in a move which he said is his "dream come true."

The pizza joint was one of the several branches Papa Johns closed in January as they were "not meeting expectations."

Kidderminster Shuttle: Pavanjot Dhillon in the reopened Papa Johns Pavanjot Dhillon in the reopened Papa Johns (Image: Newsquest)

The takeaway's reopening, which has created new jobs, makes Pavanjot the youngest franchisee for the company in the UK.

He has vowed to turn around its fortunes by focussing on customer service and good quality pizzas.

Pavanjot is also a student and is studying for a degree in Actuarial Science with the City University of London alongside running the takeaway.

He missed the opening day yesterday (Thursday May 23) as he was taking an exam.

Kidderminster Shuttle: Staff at the opening on Thursday (May 23) Staff at the opening on Thursday (May 23) (Image: Handout)

The pizza business is in the blood as Pavanjot's parents ran pizza franchises in Kidderminster and Stourbridge, until they retired in 2017.

Pavanjot, who turned 21 last week and lives in Dudley, said: "I'm following in my parents footsteps.

"It is 20 years since our family first opened a rival franchised pizza outlet in Kidderminster.

"My parents built up their business and eventually sold and retired.

"Fast-forward two decades and with my family’s support, it’s my turn to carry on the franchised food business, now with Papa Johns.

Kidderminster Shuttle: Pavanjot Dhillon, aged 21, outside his Papa Johns takeaway in Kidderminster

"They are helping me with all their experience.

"I understand before there were problems, but it's now under completely new ownership - our main focus is top-quality pizzas and service all at the best price.

“We run owner-operated stores, meaning we are in the store every day, supporting our team and welcoming customers. "It’s a dream come true to run my own Papa Johns store in my local community.”

Pavanjot is committed to growing the business.

He said: “My ambition is to expand in the business in the region and create more job opportunities for people living in Kidderminster.

"It’s important to be a good neighbour to the local community – it’s where I grew up after all!”

The takeaway gave out more than 70 free pizzas to local businesses to celebrate the opening yesterday as well as to staff at nearby Kidderminster Medical Centre.

A Papa Johns spokesperson said: "We are excited to re-open Papa Johns Kidderminster, which will not only mean that people can get their favourite pizza again, but also create new job opportunities."

There are special offers on at the takeaway, which is open seven days a week, from 11am till 11pm.