Burger King and Popeyes give tough competition to each other in the fast food industry. Thanks to their incredible menu offerings. This leads to curiosity about whether there is any relationship between them, and does Burger King own Popeyes?
Yes, Burger King indirectly owns Popeyes as both the chains share a joint parent company (RBI). However, it’s essential to know that before RBI acquired Popeyes, there was a merger between Burger King and Tim Hortons, which also led to the acquisition of Popeyes.
Popeyes is famous for its New Orleans-style fried chicken, which combines Cajun and Creole flavors. It distinguishes Popeyes food in the ever-growing fast-food business. Like, Popeyes chicken sandwiches give stiff competition to Burger King’s chicken sandwich.
Similarly, the Burger King menu is also known for its delectable items. However, both brands have greatly benefited from the acquisition by RBI. So, let’s find out more about this new relationship to understand how these brands function now.
Yes, Burger King Indirectly Owns Popeyes
Yes, Burger King indirectly owns Popeyes as the RBI. (Restaurants Business International) came into existence through a merger of two major fast-food companies: Burger King and Tim Hortons.
Restaurant Brands International (RBI) acquired Burger King in 2014. From then on, RBI acquired Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen in a deal completed in March 2017. Thus, RBI’s portfolio of fast-food brands further benefited from the merger.
However, Popeyes, known for its Southern-style fried chicken, was a significant addition to RBI’s holdings in the quick-service restaurant industry. But that’s not all. RBI subsequently undertook other fast food under its umbrella and continues to do so.
What Exactly Is RBI. (Restaurants Business International)
Restaurant Brands International (RBI) is a multinational fast-food holding company. It was founded in 2014 due to a merger between Burger King and Tim Hortons. RBI later bought Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen in 2017.
RBI is one of the world’s major quick-service restaurant corporations with a global reach. It oversees these significant fast-food brand operations, expansion, and strategic direction.
While each of these brands has its personality, menu offerings, and marketing tactics, they are all part of RBI. Now that you know about RBI, read our in-depth article on whether Burger King owns Tim Hortons. This will allow you to provide a more detailed description of these eateries’ operations.
Is This Acquisition Good For Popeyes?
Yes, RBI’s acquisition of Popeyes has positively impacted the restaurant. These changes can be observed in the growth of Popeyes in many aspects.
Restaurant Brands International(RBI) purchased Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen for $1.8 billion in 2017. Since then, there has been a significant increase in sales for the brand. In 2018, Popeyes recorded system-wide sales of about $3.7 billion.
Moreover, Popeyes has also grown to 3,120 restaurants globally. Regarding working on different aspects to make Popeyes business more successful, RBI CEO José Cil said, “Technology at Popeyes remains the key focus for us, and we’re excited about the opportunity both near term and long-term.”
According to the RBI’s website, Popeyes in the United States is likewise working toward producing a menu devoid of artificial colors and flavors wherever possible by 2025. They also ensure food safety by undertaking thorough food safety inspections regularly.
Additionally, the suppliers are required to be certified under the Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI). But that’s not all; high sodium levels in fast-food restaurants always concern customers. Thus, RBI sets targets to reduce sodium across existing Popeyes entrees, meal combinations, and side dishes.
RBI has made significant investments in digital projects to enhance the capabilities of its brands, including Popeyes. Digital innovations, such as smartphone ordering and delivery, have become increasingly important in the fast-food industry, especially as consumer preferences and behaviors evolve. Thus, it allows customers to place orders and enjoy Popeyes’ food without leaving their homes or workplaces.
Furthermore, digital solutions streamline the ordering process. As a result, they reduce wait times for customers and improve the overall efficiency of Popeyes’ operations. Therefore, Popeyes has benefited from its acquisition of RBI.
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Expanded global reach | Potential loss of independence |
Increased focus on technologyIncreased resources from a larger corporation | Increased Competition |
Increased focus on food safety | Cultural differences |
Increased focus on making food healthier | Regulatory challenges |
Improved supply chain | Maintaining brand identity |
What Is In The Future For Popeyes?
The future of Popeyes, following its acquisition by Restaurant Brands International (RBI), has several potential directions and opportunities for the brand. RBI and Popeyes’ leadership subjected these to several strategies and decisions.
- Global Expansion: RBI’s worldwide presence and expertise can assist Popeyes in expanding into new international areas, introducing its unique flavors and menu selections to a larger audience.
- Digital Initiatives: RBI, as previously stated, has been investing in digital projects for its brands, including Popeyes. This can result in more convenient digital ordering and delivery alternatives, loyalty programs, and tailored marketing efforts.
- Operational Efficiency: Popeyes can benefit from pooled resources and operational efficiencies, contributing to cost savings and increased profitability.
- Brand Growth: Popeyes can concentrate on building its brand and preserving its identity while also investigating the potential for co-branding or collaborations consistent with its brand values.
- Menu Innovation: Popeyes can keep innovating its menu, introducing new and exciting dishes to meet evolving consumer tastes and preferences under RBI’s guidance. For example, they may continue to develop limited-time specials or unusual menu items that excite customers.
- Operational Efficiency: Popeyes can benefit from pooled resources and operational efficiencies, contributing to cost savings and increased profitability.
- Customer Experience: Under RBI’s guidance, Popeyes can improve customer experience in terms of the quality of the food and the service provided.
Conclusion
RBI, which owns Burger King and Tim Hortons, paid $1.8 billion for Popeyes in 2017. Since then, the brand has grown tremendously in all facets of its business.
This article must have helped you grasp the appearance of Popeyes under RBI and Burger King’s ownership. With the success of Burger King, we have also compared many other fast food restaurants with Burger King.
Therefore, if you plan to try out the food from Five Guys, our detailed analysis of Five Guys vs. Burger King will help you determine which is better.
Likewise, Checkers is also famous for its burgers and seasoned fries. So, you can compare Checker food with Burger King to understand what will suit you better.
Additionally, Taco Bell is famous for its tacos. If you cannot decide what to have for dinner, this comparison of Burger King vs. Taco Bell can help you.
Frequently Answered Questions (FAQs)
Does Burger King own Popeyes?
Yes, Burger King owns Popeyes. Restaurant Brands International (RBI), the parent company of Burger King and Tim Hortons, purchased Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen in 2017. This acquisition brought Popeyes under the same corporate umbrella as Burger King and Tim Hortons.
What is Restaurant Brands International?
Restaurant Brands International (RBI) is an international fast-food holding company based in Canada. It was formed in 2014 when Burger King merged with Tim Hortons.
Does Burger King and Popeyes share menu items?
No, Burger King and Popeyes do not share menu items. Each brand has its unique menu, and RBI plans to keep that the same. However, both brands can benefit from each other due to cross-promotions and marketing campaigns.
Will Burger King and Popeyes merge?
No, Burger King and Popeyes will not merge. While RBI owns both companies, they will continue to operate as separate brands.