020806 Popeyes Targets 14 Key Markets For Expansion

Atlanta, GA - Popeyes Chicken & Biscuits, the world's second-largest chicken chain and a division of AFC Enterprises, Inc., is targeting 14 key markets for expansion. These markets are Albuquerque; Charlotte, N.C.; Chattanooga, Tenn.; Cleveland; Dayton, Ohio; Denver; Greensboro, N.C.; Indianapolis; Knoxville, Tenn.; Las Vegas; Orlando, Fla.; Raleigh/Durham, N.C.; Richmond, Va.; and Tulsa, Okla. Popeyes is looking for franchisees to develop traditional freestanding and in-line restaurants throughout these areas.

``For 30 years, Popeyes has been a leader in the quick-service restaurant industry,'' said Brian Lacey, Chief Franchising and Development Officer for Popeyes Chicken & Biscuits. ``We feel these dynamic markets hold a great deal of opportunity for the Popeyes brand and look forward to increasing our presence in them.''

Founded in 1972 in New Orleans, Popeyes now has 289 franchisees and more than 1,622 restaurants in 42 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and 21 other countries. The Popeyes concept is based on the traditions of New Orleans cuisine and culture and features spicy and mild chicken, buttermilk biscuits, world-famous red beans and rice and a line of over-rice dishes called Popeyes Louisiana Legends.

``Popeyes is looking for entrepreneurs who are committed to Popeyes' vision, have proven expertise in restaurant operations and are capable of developing a minimum of three locations,'' Lacey said. ``We work hard to provide equity and opportunity by ensuring women and minorities are included in our reach. We want to become the Franchisor of Choice by supporting our franchisees throughout the entire franchising cycle.''

To provide this world-class support, the Popeyes Market Development group helps franchisees select, develop and open sites for their restaurants and advises them throughout the opening process. Once a restaurant opens, Popeyes Business Consultants and field operations support teams work closely with franchisees to provide support that helps the restaurant run successfully.

Jim Eddy of Heartland Chicken, Inc. in Kansas City, Mo., has been a Popeyes franchisee for 18 years. ``The support that Popeyes provides is very valuable,'' he said. ``My brother and I operate 12 restaurants and have two under construction. We want to stay with Popeyes and continue to grow. In fact, we've committed to build eight more restaurants to ensure our business continues long after we're gone!''

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