Jubilant FoodWorks expands Popeyes presence with four new outlets in Mumbai

INDIA – Indian quick-service restaurant (QSR) operator Jubilant FoodWorks Limited (JFL) has recently opened four new Popeyes outlets in Mumbai, Maharashtra, marking a significant step in the American brand’s expansion across the city.

The new locations include major shopping destinations like Phoenix Marketcity Mall in Kurla, Viviana Mall in Thane, and Inorbit Mall in Vashi.

The company also announced that a fourth outlet will soon open at Mumbai Airport’s Terminal 2, enhancing accessibility for travelers.

Popeyes, renowned for its Louisiana-style fried chicken and signature items such as the popular chicken sandwich, entered the Indian market in January 2022 through a master franchise agreement with Jubilant FoodWorks.

Since its launch in Bengaluru, the brand has expanded steadily into other metropolitan areas including Chennai, Hyderabad, and Delhi NCR, with Mumbai now becoming a key focus for growth.

JFL’s managing director and CEO, Sameer Khetarpal, expressed enthusiasm about Popeyes’ reception in Mumbai, a city known for its diverse and vibrant culinary scene.

He stated that the brand has received an exceptional response across India, and they anticipate Mumbaikars will embrace Popeyes’ distinct offerings with similar enthusiasm.

He noted the company’s strategy to grow strategically within urban areas with a focus on quality locations, aiming to expand to 100 stores across India by the end of the fiscal year 2026 or early 2027.

Popeyes India executive vice president and business head, Gaurav Pande, highlighted that the brand is targeting younger consumers, particularly Gen Z and millennials, with its innovative menu and bold flavors.

He pointed to the strong performance of items such as their viral chicken sandwich and expanding wings selections, which have resonated well with Indian customers.

Jubilant FoodWorks continues to invest in building its supply chain and operational infrastructure to support the rapid scaling of Popeyes outlets.

The company plans to open 30 to 50 new Popeyes stores annually, deepening market penetration in existing cities before widening geographic reach.

Popeyes is well positioned to compete directly with established fried chicken players like KFC, offering differentiated Cajun-inspired flavors and a unique dining experience.

The rapid rollout in Mumbai is part of JFL’s broader growth ambition for Popeyes in India and neighboring countries, leveraging its deep local market expertise alongside an internationally recognized brand to capture the growing demand for quick-service fried chicken across metropolitan India.

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