NEW YORK, Nov 6 (Reuters) - Papa John's chief

executive Todd Penegor on Thursday said the company is currently

focusing on the execution of its strategy to drive value but

noted it would be open to look at alternatives if they were

available.

Penegor spoke on the company's earnings call after the pizza

chain's revenues missed estimates. He promised a host of

improvements, including cost cuts and new side dishes and then

addressed what he called "M&A rumors" after Reuters reported

this week that a bid to take the company private had been

withdrawn.