See the place Popeye’s ranks when our forty fifth Annual Franchise 500 checklist is launched on January 16, 2024.
Began Franchising: 1976 | Whole Items: 3,851 | Value to Open: $383.5K-$3.5M
Final yr was Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen’s fiftieth anniversary, however it was greater than only a milestone. It was additionally a possibility to amplify its message and proceed its momentum. In 2021, for instance, Popeyes opened greater than 200 eating places within the U.S. and Canada, and it remained on monitor to interrupt information once more in 2022. Though it typically touts its Louisiana roots, it is rather a lot a nationwide model, and continues to develop in quite a few markets throughout the U.S. That is Popeyes’ third consecutive yr rating within the Franchise 500 and third consecutive yr within the High 10, transferring up one spot every year since 2021.
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So, how did it maximize its large 5-0? Popeyes hosted its franchisees at a conference in New Orleans, the place attendees addressed strategic plans for future progress. A part of that progress has included increasing the menu to incorporate objects similar to its Buffalo Ranch Rooster Sandwich (following the success of its first fried rooster sandwich in 2019) in addition to its Blackened Rooster Sandwich, and bringing again its beloved Cajun Flounder Sandwich. “Menu improvements have actually taken Popeyes to the subsequent degree,” says Jourdan Daleo, senior vp of discipline operations.
Popeyes additionally used the anniversary to supply promotions and surprises. In June, it supplied prospects two items of signature bone-in rooster for 59 cents, the identical worth it offered for in 1972 when the corporate was based. It additionally briefly introduced again the Cajun Rice aspect dish and made a video that includes {couples} discussing 50 years of affection.
The anniversary yr landed throughout a difficult time for eating places because of rising inflation. However as a substitute of panicking, Popeyes used the present atmosphere as a possibility to reiterate its distinctive flavors and new menu choices. Clients most likely know Popeyes greatest for its bone-in objects, however the sandwich launches helped the corporate showcase its boneless talents as properly. By profiting from a tough restaurant panorama, Popeyes was capable of showcase what makes them stand out. In flip, this has helped its prospects see Popeyes in a brand new gentle. “I’ve seen our friends actually get to know Popeyes via quite a lot of merchandise,” says Daleo.
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Although the anniversary yr has now ended, Popeyes says it’s going to stay in get together mode — touting its Cajun and Creole hospitality and 12-hour marination method. “We see a number of celebration of our meals,” says Daleo, “and we take that to coronary heart.”
