Wingstop, Popeyes plan extensive UK restaurant expansion

Popeyes and Wingstop are both aggressively expanding their presence in the UK, with Popeyes planning to open over 45 new restaurants and create approximately 2,500 jobs, while Wingstop aims for at least 20 new locations this year, also generating hundreds of job opportunities. Popeyes, having recently reported a significant sales increase, is set to bolster its operations in major cities like Birmingham and London, with an ambitious goal of reaching over 350 sites in the medium term. Meanwhile, Wingstop, following a takeover by a US private equity firm, intends to open 10 new dine-in restaurants in the first half of the year, including locations in Newcastle and Brighton. Both chains are capitalizing on the growing popularity of chicken restaurants in the UK, competing with newcomers like Dave’s Hot Chicken and Chick-fil-A. Wingstop's CEO highlighted the company's record growth and commitment to expanding into new regions. This surge in fast-food expansion signals strong market demand and confidence in the chicken dining segment.