A popular US fried chicken chain is finally set to open its first restaurant in Colchester.
Popeyes will launch at 38 High Street on Friday, September 11, as part of the new Minerva House development in the former Marks & Spencer building.
The opening is part of a wider regeneration project led by developer City and Country, who purchased the site in 2024 with plans to transform it into a mixed-use destination featuring shops, restaurants, workspaces, and a rooftop bar.
Tom Crowley, CEO of Popeyes UK, said: "Colchester has a fantastic energy and we're excited to be opening our first restaurant in the area.
"We can't wait to welcome the local community through our doors and introduce even more people to our famous Louisiana hospitality, bold flavours and unmistakable Popeyes crunch."
The new restaurant will create 45 jobs and serve the chain’s signature Louisiana-style menu, including its famous chicken sandwich, hot wings, tenders, and wraps.
Popeyes opening days are known for drawing large crowds, and the Colchester launch is expected to be no different.
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To mark the occasion, the first three customers in the queue will win free chicken sandwiches for a year, while the first 100 will receive a free chicken sandwich.
The first 50 will also take home exclusive Popeyes merchandise.
The queue will officially open at 9am, with the restaurant opening its doors at 11am.
The chain uses 100 per cent fresh chicken, marinated for 12 hours in its signature Louisiana seasoning, then hand-breaded and battered to create its signature “shatter crunch.”
Dine-in and takeaway options will be available, with self-service kiosks and collection points for online orders through the Popeyes UK website or app.
Breakfast will also be on the menu, including breakfast rolls, muffins, and biscuits, along with Cajun hash browns.
The former M&S building, which first opened in 1931, closed in September 2022 when the retailer relocated to Stane Retail Park.
The site has remained vacant since then, with City and Country’s plans aiming to revitalise the space into a vibrant mixed-use hub.
A buffet restaurant operated by Cosmo Restaurants has also been confirmed for the site, though its fit-out has yet to begin.
Popeyes was founded in New Orleans in 1972 and now operates more than 4,000 restaurants worldwide.
The brand entered the UK market in 2021 and has since expanded rapidly, with more than 100 locations across the country.
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