For the third year in a row, Papa John’s and TXU Energy are teaming up to deliver tree seedlings with every pizza order in honor of Earth Day in the Houston area. This year, the #trees4pizza promotion will run Friday and Saturday of Earth Day weekend, and will result in 50,000 tree seedlings being delivered over the three-year partnership. 

“Together with TXU Energy, we’re literally delivering a forest’s worth of trees to our community,” said Keith Sullins, president of Houston Pizza Ventures, the region’s largest Papa John’s franchisee. “Our customers have let us know that they love it – they’ve sent us pictures of their trees growing in their backyards, potted on their balconies, and even decorated for Christmas.” 

The two business partners first started this promotion on Earth Day 2015 by distributing 12,000 free seedlings to the Houston area. Last year, they grew the number to 17,000 seedlings. This year, they plan to distribute 21,000 loblolly pine seedlings over Earth Day weekend - this Friday and Saturday - April 21 and 22.

“We’re excited this promotion continues to grow every year,” said Jason Schultz, TXU Energy’s director of business sales for Houston and South Texas. “Trees are an important part of every community, and planting and caring for a seedling is a fun and educational activity the whole family can enjoy. TXU Energy and Papa John’s share a commitment to our communities and bringing more trees to our neighborhoods.”

Customers who receive a tree seedling this year – and those who received trees in previous years – are encouraged to use the #trees4pizza hashtag on social media to share pictures of their trees. The seedlings come with planting and care instructions, and can be potted for up to two years before being planted in the ground. The loblolly pine species thrives in the Texas Bayou Region.

“TXU Energy is a great energy partner for Papa John’s, and we’re both excited to continue our partnership to beautify our communities in honor of Earth Day,” Sullins said.

To commemorate the 50,000-tree milestone, the companies are planting a large tree at the BakerRipley Dementia Day Center in Houston.


About Houston Pizza Ventures
Houston Pizza Venture Restaurant Group is a locally owned and operated, multi-concept restaurant franchise group. It is the area’s largest Papa John’s franchisee and also owns and operates Genghis Grill, Firehouse Subs and Surefire Tacos locations.

About TXU Energy
More Texans trust TXU Energy to power their homes and businesses than any other electricity provider. We’re passionate about creating experiences and solutions tailored to fit the needs of our customers, including electricity plans, online tools to help save, renewable energy options and more. Ranked as the #9 Top Place to Work by The Dallas Morning News, TXU Energy is also committed to creating a dynamic and fun workplace where all our people can succeed. Visit txu.com for more. REP #10004