Popeye’s is known for chicken and biscuits and it was started in Arabi, Louisiana near New Orleans.  Al Copeland started the company in 1972 and called it Chicken on the Run.  They began to franchise the concept in 1976 and they started with a location in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.  Over the next 10 years 500 more locations opened and many franchises was acquired by B.P. Newman in Texas and surrounding states.  By 1989 Popeye’s was the third largest chicken chain and they merged with Church’s Chicken through AFC Enterprises.  In 2004 AFC sold Church’s, but kept Popeye’s.  Currently the company has more than 1,800 restaurants in more than 40 states and over 21 countries. 

Popeye’s is, of course, known for their chicken.  They started with a mild fried chicken and business was slow.  They quickly added a spicier version of chicken to their menu to please the people of Louisiana that were looking for a spicier flavor.  Currently they serve many types of chicken and even have a biscuit that has no trans-fat.  They also serve many sides including French fries with only one gram of trans-fat.  They have meals for those on the go and for those that are dining in.

There are many restaurant franchise opportunities with Popeye’s and they require a net worth of $500,000 and at least half of it has to be available in liquid assets.  They also require any owner/operator to have at least 5 years of business or restaurant experience with a successful background.  It takes between 90 and 120 days to be approved to open a Popeye’s and it can take up to a full year to develop the first restaurant.  Popeye’s will support you through their business support center.  This is where they do their training and where you will receive ongoing support if you need it.