Fried chicken restaurant chain Popeyes has confirmed the opening dates for two new restaurants in Essex - with one as early as next week. The new venue in Lakeside Shopping Centre will open on Friday May 9, with the new restaurant in Southend High Street opening on Thursday May 16.
The venues will be the 15th and 16th new openings for Popeyes this year, creating 120 new jobs and it will bring its signature New Orleans chicken to both areas, with some giveaways planned for the first customers through the front doors.
On each launch day the first three people in the queue at the Lakeside and Southend-on-Sea launches will win the ultimate prize - free Chicken Sandwiches for a full year. Plus, the first 50 customers at each location will be treated to exclusive Popeyes merchandise, and the first 100 will bag a free Chicken Sandwich.
Read more: Eight schools and 'vehicle-free zones' planned for huge new Essex town with 7,500 homes
Read more: The hardest primary schools in Essex to get into ranked from highest to lowest
Popeyes fan-favourites like the iconic Chicken Sandwich, Hot Wings, Tenders, and Signature Chicken Wraps will be making an appearance at both restaurants. The new Saucin’ Boneless and Hot Wings range will also be available, featuring flavours cheesy Garlic Parm, bold BBQ, and spicy Buffalo.
From May 17, the Breakfast menu will also be available at the Southend restaurant from 8am until 11am every day, and will even include a breakfast meal deal for £1.99—consisting of the Bacon Brekkie Roll, a Cajun Hash Brown and a drink.
Tom Crowley, Popeyes UK Chief Executive Officer, said: "We’re thrilled to be opening in both Southend-on-Sea and Lakeside Shopping Centre this May - two fantastic Essex locations. With both locations opening a week apart, we’re excited to bring our famous ‘shatter-crunchin’ fried chicken and share a taste of New Orleans with the region this summer.”
Susan Williamson, Head of Marketing at Lakeside Shopping Centre, said: “We’re incredibly excited to welcome Popeyes to Lakeside. It’s a brand that’s known for creating a real buzz with its openings, and we’re expecting a big turnout from fans eager to get a first taste. The arrival of Popeyes further strengthens our growing food and beverage offering and we can’t wait to see our visitors enjoying its legendary fried chicken.”
