Popeyes joins Network Rail portfolio with Waterloo opening
The opening of Popeyes aims to further diversify Waterloo’s offering, joining 25 other F&B brands including Benugo, Marugame and The Victory pub
Network Rail has announced the opening of Louisiana chicken chain Popeyes at Waterloo station, marking the brand’s entry into travel catering.
The opening comes as, over the last 12 months, Network Rail has evolved the retail mix across its managed stations by introducing new brands and experiences at destination stations.
The opening of Popeyes aims to further diversify Waterloo’s offering, joining 25 other F&B brands including Benugo, Marugame and The Victory pub.
Comprising over 1,820 sq ft, the restaurant is new to Network Rail’s retail portfolio and the first Popeyes to open across its 19 managed stations in the country.
At Waterloo, Popeyes will be serving takeaway and dine-in eating from breakfast through to dinner, with customers able to pick from items including The Chicken Sandwich and Hot Wings.
Across all stations, Network Rail benefits from over 700 million visits per year, with the group’s most recent annual retail sales surpassing £800m.
According to Network Rail, the income generated from retail and F&B is crucial to its ongoing reinvestment into the transformation of British railways.
Hamish Kiernan, commercial director of property at Network Rail, said: “Passenger appetite for food and drink continues to go from strength-to-strength across Network Rail stations, making Popeyes an exciting addition to our F&B line up.
“Introducing international and popular brands to our stations is an essential aspect of our retail strategy, as we strive to make our offering varied for customers. The opening of Popeyes further demonstrates our proactive steps to develop a curated retail mix.”
Tom Crowley, CEO of Popeyes UK, added: “We are delighted with the turnout and popularity of our new Popeyes Waterloo restaurant on opening day. Waterloo is not only our first travel hub, but has been a key location for us since we landed in the UK, so the response to our opening has been incredible to see.
“We’re really looking forward to welcoming people to Waterloo and hope to become a regular stop-off for those working and living in the area.”
Popeyes has over 3,700 worldwide restaurants and operates in over 30 European countries, with a well-balanced offering including classics from their American menus and locally exclusive items.
