Popeyes Aims To Recruit Diverse Franchise Owners Through New Partnership

Popeyes is looking to diversify its franchise base, making it more like the city in which it was born: New Orleans, a “melting pot with its array of blended cultures and diversity,” says Sami Siddiqui, president of Popeyes North America, in a press release.

To make it happen, the over 3,500-unit brand has linked up with the National Urban League, a nonprofit dedicated to economic empowerment, equality and social justice for African Americans and others in underserved communities. Popeyes says the partnership will allow it to leverage the nonprofit’s network of affiliate partners that serve 300 communities to identify and onboard new, diverse franchisees and operators.

“While Popeyes has a long waiting list of potential franchisees, the brand is looking to recruit best-in-class, diverse operators to join the family and help take the brand to the next level as it continues to develop and grow nationwide,” says Popeyes in a press release.

As a first step, the National Urban League will invite individuals from within its network to learn more about becoming a Popeyes franchisee. It also will work with Popeyes to create a partnership page on its website where candidates can apply. The nonprofit will vet applicants and connect prospects with Popeyes team members.

Popeyes, part of the Restaurant Brands Int’l. portfolio, joins other brands, like Denny’s, McDonald’s and Yum Brands, that have been working to create more diverse franchise bases.