​Popeyes Opens First UK Train Station Restaurant

Popeyes has inaugurated its first restaurant within a UK train station, marking a significant milestone for the Louisiana-based chicken chain. The new establishment, located in London Waterloo, covers 1,820 square feet and offers both dine-in and takeaway options, catering to customers from breakfast through to dinner.

Phillip Pessar, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

This strategic move into travel hubs follows the opening of Popeyes' initial UK store in London's Stratford in November 2021. The expansion is part of the company's broader growth strategy, bolstered by a £50 million investment from a private equity firm in August 2023.

Popeyes has rapidly expanded since its debut in the UK, launching over 35 locations nationwide. The company plans to double its presence by adding 30 new sites within the year. The new Waterloo location joins a diverse range of 25 food and beverage brands at the Network Rail station, including Marugame Udon and Benugo.

Hamish Kiernan, Commercial Director of Property at Network Rail, commented on the new opening: "Introducing international and popular brands to our stations is an essential aspect of our retail strategy, as we strive to make our offering varied for customers. The opening of Popeyes further demonstrates our proactive steps to develop a curated retail mix."

Tom Crowley, Chief Executive at Popeyes UK, expressed his enthusiasm about the new venture: "Waterloo is not only our first travel hub but has been a key location since we landed in the UK, so the response to our opening has been incredible. We're looking forward to welcoming people to Waterloo and hope to become a regular stop-off for those working and living there."

Founded in 1972, Popeyes boasts over 4,000 restaurants across the United States and globally, bringing a taste of New Orleans to diners worldwide.