An impressive queue formed outside the brand new Popeyes on the Kingswood Retail Park this morning, with some very keen people having camped out overnight. It’s the first Hull outlet for American brand Popeyes, which prides itself on “famous Louisiana chicken”.
Hull Live was invited down for Friday’s grand opening of the restaurant and takeaway, speaking to some customers who won incredible prizes. Stefan McLeod, in the queue with his daughter Leila-Rose McLeod, revealed they had been waiting for 14 hours and got “wet and cold” in the rain.
It ended up being worth it, as he was one of just eight winners of the ultimate prize of free Deluxe Chicken Sandwiches for an entire year. “I’m glad to have it,” he said.
While only a few people were lucky enough to win an ultimate prize, the first 50 customers in the queue were treated to exclusive Popeyes UK merchandise. Plus, the first 100 in the queue bagged themselves a free Deluxe Chicken Sandwich.
All Popeyes chicken is marinated for 12 hours in its signature blend of bold Louisiana seasoning, then hand-breaded and battered to deliver that world-famous ‘Shatter-Crunch’.
The Breakfast menu will also be available 8am until 10am every day, and will even include a Breakfast meal deal for just £1.99 – consisting of the Chicken Brekkie Roll, a Cajun Hash Brown and a drink. The deal can be claimed exclusively through the Popeyes UK app.
Tom Crowley, Popeyes UK CEO, said: “Bringing the bold flavours of Louisiana to Hull for the first time marks an important milestone for us. We’re looking forward to welcoming the local community to experience our New Orleans hospitality and to celebrate the opening together.”
The new restaurant is located at Kingswood Retail Park, Althorp Road, Hull, HU7 3DA, and has brought 91 jobs to the local area. There is seating inside, self-service kiosks, collection points, and Park and Serve spots for orders made online via the Popeyes UK website or official app.
Did you miss the grand opening, or were you among those waving in the crowd? Have a look at our photographs, below.
All images and footage by Donna Clifford for Hull Live