Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen, based in the U.S.,has made its first foray into Alberta, opening a franchise location on Calgary’s 17th Avenue SE in November.
The second-largest fast-food chicken chain in the world has more than 2,000 restaurants globally. The vast majority are in the U.S. with another 400 worldwide, including 108 in Canada.
Opening its first outlet in New Orleans in 1972, Popeyes has a Louisiana-influenced menu featuring spicy chicken, fried shrimp and other seafood. The buildings often have a New Orleans feel with faux balconies and iron railings reminiscent of that city’s French Quarter.
Popeyes will face a lot of local competition. Calgary’s popular 17th Avenue already hosts outlets from Kentucky Fried Chicken, Chicken on the Way, Cajun Chicken Hut and Fritou.
A Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen franchise has startup costs from about US$450,000, not counting real estate and construction of an outlet. The initial franchise fee is US$45,000.
