AFC Enterprises, parent company of Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen, today announced strong same-store sales for the fourth quarter 2010 ended Dec. 26. Global same-store sales increased 6 percent, compared to a 1 percent decrease from the same period last year.
For 2010 in full, global same-store sales increased 2.6 percent, compared to a 0.7 percent increase in 2009 and exceeding the company’s 2 to 2.5 percent expectations.
During 4Q10, Popeyes opened 22 domestic and 26 international units, bringing the 2010 total to 106 new openings. AFC expects eight more restaurants to open by the end of January.
The Popeyes system permanently closed 67 restaurants in FY10, resulting in a net unit growth of 39 restaurants, compared to 14 net units in 2009.
“We continue to be pleased with our strong same-store sales momentum, which reflects our superior food and effective marketing campaigns in the U.S. and around the globe. Today our business model is stronger and more profitable to our franchise owners,” said Cheryl Bachelder, AFC Enterprises CEO. “We remain in a very good position to continue the acceleration of unit growth in 2011 and beyond.”
Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen plans to build off its 2010 fourth quarter success and continue its domestic expansion to increase the number of franchised locations. Markets specifically targeted for growth in 2011 include San Diego, Los Angeles, Indianapolis, Phoenix, Tampa, Philadelphia and Cleveland.
