Popeyes® Expands Rapidly in Mexico with New Franchise Agreements and Local Partnerships
Popeyes® Accelerates Growth in Mexico
Popeyes®, the renowned chicken quick-service restaurant brand, has unveiled ambitious plans to significantly expand its footprint in Mexico. Recently, the company announced strategic development agreements with regional franchisees aimed at opening more than 300 new restaurants in the Mexican market over the next ten years. This bold move not only marks a major milestone in Popeyes®’ growth strategy but also underscores its commitment to delivering authentic Louisiana flavors to one of Latin America's most vibrant quick-service restaurant sectors.
The expansion is particularly focused on regions across the Northwest, West, Central, and Southeast areas of Mexico, showcasing Popeyes®' intentions to cater to a diverse customer base. By partnering with regional franchise groups that possess deep expertise in foodservice operations and a profound understanding of local markets, Popeyes® is poised for rapid and successful expansion.
Among the key partners, Star Louisiana, a long-time Popeyes developer, is set to enhance the brand's presence in Jalisco, while Border Crunch will spearhead growth in the Northwest region. Grupo Euro is assigned to drive developments in the Central region, and Grupo Berny will oversee expansion in the Southeast region.
Duncan Montero, the LAC President of Restaurant Brands International (RBI), the parent company of Popeyes®, expressed excitement about these partnerships, stating, “Mexico represents a tremendous growth opportunity for Popeyes, and we’re thrilled to be collaborating with experienced and passionate franchisees who share our vision.” He highlighted how their unique New Orleans-style menu, particularly Popeyes’ famous chicken—prepared through a time-honored process of marination, hand-breading, and slow cooking—resonates with customers, reinforcing their confidence in winning over the Mexican market.
The new franchise agreements are expected to generate thousands of jobs, contributing to local economies and introducing the popular Popeyes Chicken Sandwich, which has attained global acclaim, to a new audience in Mexico. This initiative is part of Popeyes®' broader international growth agenda, which has recently seen successes in various regions including Costa Rica, Italy, and the Balkans. Currently, the brand delights guests in more than 45 countries worldwide.
Founded in New Orleans, Louisiana, in 1972, Popeyes® has built a rich half-century legacy centered on its distinctive Cajun culinary tradition. Its menu features not only spicy chicken but also chicken sandwiches, tenders, and a variety of regionally inspired offerings, allowing the brand to emerge as one of the largest chicken quick-service restaurant chains globally, with over 5,000 locations.
Popeyes® is part of Restaurant Brands International Inc., one of the leading quick-service restaurant firms which boast over $45 billion in annual system-wide sales and operates more than 32,000 restaurants across 120 countries and territories. Alongside Popeyes®, RBI is also the parent company to other iconic brands such as BURGER KING®, TIM HORTONS®, and FIREHOUSE SUBS®.
In conclusion, Popeyes®' strategic expansion in Mexico reflects both its confidence in the region’s market potential and its commitment to sharing its heritage of flavorful Cajun food with new customers. As it prepares to roll out hundreds of new outlets, the brand is not only set to make its mark in Mexico but also aims to inspire growth in its global presence.