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American fried chicken chain Popeyes is rapidly expanding across the UK, opening a new Bromley outlet as part of a wider strategy that leverages AI technology to boost operational efficiency amid growing consumer demand for fast-casual dining.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n
American fried chicken giant Popeyes continues to accelerate its expansion across the UK with a forthcoming store in Bromley, South East London. This new location follows the launch of a high street branch in nearby Eltham in August and is part of an ambitious rollout plan to open 45 new restaurants nationwide throughout 2025. The Bromley store, situated at 12-13 Market Square near The Glades shopping centre, has completed its fit-out, including the installation of self-service kiosks, with staff training now underway ahead of an imminent opening. This growth builds on a successful 2024, when the chain opened 33 locations across the UK, collectively generating over \u00a3118 million in sales.<\/p>\n
Popeyes\u2019 rapid UK expansion reflects rising demand for fast-casual dining options and the brand\u2019s increasing popularity, dovetailing with broader trends in the foodservice industry. The chain\u2019s embrace of technology is notably exemplified by its partnership with Sona, a company providing an AI-powered workforce management system designed to enhance operational efficiency. Earlier this year, Popeyes UK began rolling out Sona\u2019s suite, which includes forecasting, productivity tracking, auto-scheduling, as well as HR and payroll management, across its UK and soon Irish stores.<\/p>\n
Sona\u2019s COO Steffen Wulff Petersen expressed enthusiasm about working with Popeyes UK\u2019s leadership, highlighting a cultural alignment and the chain\u2019s desire for next-generation workforce management tools to support their ambitious growth strategy. According to Petersen, Popeyes COO Neil Williamson and his team were keen to adopt modern technology that could sustain the company\u2019s rapid expansion while maintaining high standards in workforce productivity and customer service.<\/p>\n
This technological advancement is part of a wider digital transformation wave within retail and hospitality, where AI innovations are becoming integral to business processes. The Retail Tech Innovation Hub has recently launched its AI in Retail Awards, recognising companies that harness AI to deliver tangible operational improvements and superior shopping experiences. The awards underscore 2025 as a pivotal year for AI adoption, particularly generative AI, moving beyond hype to deliver everyday value for retailers, employees, and consumers alike.<\/p>\n
Popeyes UK\u2019s integration of AI-driven workforce management alongside its aggressive physical expansion highlights a dual focus on scaling its footprint while elevating operational agility. This strategy positions the chain well in the competitive fast-casual market, where efficiency, staff engagement, and digital innovation can be key differentiators. With the Bromley store\u2019s opening imminent, Popeyes UK is set to further consolidate its presence and capitalise on growing consumer appetite for American-style fried chicken in the UK.<\/p>\n