See the place Popeye’s ranks when our forty fifth Annual Franchise 500 record is launched on January 16, 2024.

Began Franchising: 1976 | Whole Items: 3,851 | Price to Open: $383.5K-$3.5M

Final yr was Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen’s fiftieth anniversary, nevertheless 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 observe to interrupt data 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 huge 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 equivalent to its Buffalo Ranch Hen Sandwich (following the success of its first fried rooster sandwich in 2019) in addition to its Blackened Hen Sandwich, and bringing again its beloved Cajun Flounder Sandwich. “Menu improvements have actually taken Popeyes to the following degree,” says Jourdan Daleo, senior vice chairman 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 bought for in 1972 when the corporate was based. It additionally quickly introduced again the Cajun Rice facet dish and made a video that includes {couples} discussing 50 years of affection.

The anniversary yr landed throughout a difficult time for eating places attributable to rising inflation. However as an alternative of panicking, Popeyes used the present setting as a possibility to reiterate its distinctive flavors and new menu choices. Prospects most likely know Popeyes greatest for its bone-in objects, however the sandwich launches helped the corporate showcase its boneless skills as properly. By making the most of a troublesome restaurant panorama, Popeyes was in a position to exhibit what makes them stand out. In flip, this has helped its prospects see Popeyes in a brand new mild. “I’ve seen our company actually get to know Popeyes by way of a wide range of merchandise,” says Daleo.

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Regardless that the anniversary yr has now ended, Popeyes says it will stay in get together mode — touting its Cajun and Creole hospitality and 12-hour marination approach. “We see quite a lot of celebration of our meals,” says Daleo, “and we take that to coronary heart.”