South Africans can look forward to the arrival of iconic American brand, Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen, when South African franchisee, Siyaghopa Trading Group, opens their first local restaurant in Sandton City, Johannesburg.
The new South African Popeyes quick service restaurant (QSR) will be based in the Sandton City food court, Johannesburg. To date, Popeyes restaurants span more than 25 countries, with South Africa being the latest to join the fold.
Founded in 1972 in New Orleans, Popeyes is a global player in the fried chicken segment of the QSR industry, having carved a niche in the market with their authentic Louisiana-style cuisine. The brand is founded on a 300-year old culinary tradition, which incorporates a fusion of cooking styles, spices and ingredients, derived from African, European, North American and Native American cultural influences. Based on restaurant unit counts, Popeyes is currently ranked as the world’s second largest QSR chicken concept.
“We are bringing the best of the American South to meet Africa’s South, and we have no doubt that the culinary similarities – including the melting pot of flavours and festive traditions – will be well received by South African Guests,” said Jaye Sinclair, Chief Executive Officer for South Africa-based Siyaghopa Trading Group. “We look forward to a successful launch to establish Popeyes in the local market. Going forward, we plan to expand the brand nationally, in a variety of locations, venues and formats, to ensure the majority of South Africa has access to Popeyes in the near future.”
“We are excited for Siyaghopa Trading Group to develop the Popeyes brand in the South African market as we see many opportunities to grow the brand in this unique market,’’ said Ron Whitt, President of International, Popeyes. For more than 40 years, Popeyes has been serving authentic Louisiana-inspired food and we’re excited to introduce the distinctive Popeyes fried chicken and our delicious Cajun fries to our Guests in South Africa.’’
Popeyes success has been rooted in preparation. The Brand takes its time in preparing its core bone-in fried chicken, boneless chicken tenders and additional tasty chicken products. The locally sourced chicken is first marinated for 12 hours with a rich blend of proprietary seasoning and spices, then it is hand battered and breaded to produce a product that is juicy on the inside while retaining a crispier crust on the outside. Additional Popeyes offerings include a variety of sides to complement your meal.
For more information, visit Popeyes South Africa at www.popeyes.co.za and follow on Facebook.
* Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen South Africa will serve Halaal chicken and is certified by the South African National Halaal Authority (SANHA).
About Popeyes® Louisiana Kitchen
Founded in New Orleans in 1972, POPEYES® has more than 40 years of history and culinary tradition. POPEYES® distinguishes itself with a unique New Orleans style menu featuring spicy chicken, chicken tenders, fried shrimp, and other regional items. The chain’s passion for its Louisiana heritage and flavourful authentic food has allowed POPEYES® to become one of the world’s largest chicken quick service restaurants with over 2,700 restaurants in the U.S. and around the world. Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen, Inc. can be found at www.popeyes.com.
