Popeyes has confirmed plans to open six new restaurants across the UK, creating 600 jobs. The US chicken chain opened its first UK outlet in Stratford, London, in November 2021, which has since become its top-performing restaurant globally out of 3,600 locations.
The company already operates takeaway kitchens in Bermondsey, Maida Vale and Whitechapel, and a sit-down restaurant in Chelmsford, Essex. A Romford location is set to open in July. Popeyes aims to expand further into shopping centres, high streets and drive-thru sites over the next decade.
Tom Crowley, chief executive of Popeyes UK, said: “From north to south, we’re building communities of chicken lovers across the country. We’re beyond proud to bring our world-famous Louisiana chicken to fans all over the UK, and give them a real taste of Southern US hospitality.” He added that the firm is already eyeing further locations with announcements due imminently.
Popeyes, founded in New Orleans in 1972, now has 350 branches across Europe, the Middle East and Africa, and 3,400 restaurants in 25 countries. Its UK expansion follows American burger chain Wendy’s, which returned to Britain last year after closing its last UK branch in 1999.
UK customers can expect the full Popeyes menu, including its signature chicken sandwich, Southern biscuits and gravy, and handmade milkshakes in flavours such as Lotus Biscoff and Oreo.
