Popeyes isn’t just spicing up its chicken; it’s spicing up everything. From the counter to the drive-thru, the beloved fried chicken chain is stepping into the future with bold moves that will completely change how you experience your next order. With sleek tech upgrades, a revamped app that finally delivers what fans have begged for, and global expansion plans that will put Popeyes within easy reach everywhere, these changes are about to shake up the fast-food world. If you thought you knew Popeyes, think again—because these 6 major updates are set to redefine the way you get your fix.
1. Tech Takeover at the Counter
Gone are the days of confusing orders and long waits at Popeyes. The chain is installing cloud-based POS systems and digital order-ready boards at most locations. These smart screens will show exactly when your spicy chicken sandwich is ready.
About 85% of Popeyes franchise owners have already committed to these tech upgrades. The new system helps employees take orders more accurately and speeds up the entire process from order to pickup.
For customers, this means spending less time waiting and more time enjoying those famous crispy tenders and cajun fries. The digital boards also reduce those awkward moments of wondering if that order being called is actually yours.
2. App Finally Gets a Glow-Up
Chicken lovers, rejoice! The Popeyes mobile app now lets you customize orders down to the specific pieces you want. Craving only thighs and drumsticks? No problem – just tap your preferences and skip those wings altogether.
Customers have been begging for this feature for years. The updated app finally gives you control over choosing dark or white meat, something that was impossible before unless you begged at the counter.
Mobile ordering has become smoother too, with fewer glitches and a more user-friendly design. The app remembers your favorite orders and suggests deals based on what you usually buy, making that chicken fix even more convenient.
3. Wrap Wars Heat Up
McDonald’s brought back their Snack Wraps, and Popeyes wasn’t about to be left behind. Starting June 2, 2025, Popeyes will launch their own chicken wraps in three mouthwatering flavors: Classic, Spicy, and Honey Mustard.
Want to try one without spending extra cash? Mark your calendar for July 10-13 when Popeyes will offer free wraps with any $5 purchase. Each wrap features their famous crispy chicken tenders wrapped in a warm tortilla with fresh veggies and signature sauces.
The wraps provide a lighter alternative to their traditional meals while still delivering that distinctive Popeyes flavor profile. Early taste testers report the Spicy wrap packs quite a punch while the Honey Mustard offers a perfect sweet-tangy balance.
4. Popeyes Plans Global Domination
Your favorite chicken joint might soon be closer than ever. Popeyes has ambitious plans to open 800 new locations across the U.S. and Canada by 2028. The Louisiana-style restaurant is targeting both urban centers and smaller communities previously without access to their famous recipes.
Beyond North America, Popeyes is making major moves internationally. The U.K. expansion is particularly aggressive, with dozens of locations planned for London and surrounding areas.
What makes this expansion special is how Popeyes adapts to local tastes. Menu items and operations are being tailored to regional preferences while maintaining their core offerings. This means you might find unique Popeyes items that incorporate local flavors alongside their classic chicken.
5. Kitchen Improvements
Behind those swinging doors, Popeyes kitchens are getting a complete overhaul. The company is implementing 30 different changes to make food preparation faster and more consistent under their “Easy to Run” initiative.
New automatic batter-makers take the guesswork out of creating that perfect crispy coating. Kitchen layouts are being reconfigured to create more efficient workflows, reducing the steps employees need to take between stations.
Upgraded cooking technology maintains precise temperatures and timing for every batch of chicken. These improvements aim to cut down those frustrating wait times while ensuring every piece of chicken has that signature Popeyes crunch, regardless of which location you visit.
6. AI-Run Drive-Thrus
Imagine pulling up to Popeyes and chatting with a super-smart robot that never gets your order wrong. This sci-fi scenario is becoming reality as Popeyes tests AI-powered drive-thrus in the United Kingdom.
These voice assistants understand your order with an impressive 97% accuracy. The system can handle complicated customizations and special requests without confusion, then relay the perfect instructions to the kitchen staff.
For customers, this means shorter lines, fewer mistakes, and a smoother experience. The AI even remembers returning customers and their preferences. If these U.K. tests succeed, we could see this technology rolling out to U.S. locations in the near future.
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