BUCHAREST, Romania  – Today, the Popeyes® brand and Sterling Cruise are announcing a new exclusive development deal in Romania, with a pledge to open 90 locations in the next ten years. This will be the first time the restaurant brand has set foot in the area.

“We’re excited to share big news from Romania, where we have announced ambitious plans to bring the country one of the globe’s most popular fried chicken restaurants,” said David Shear, President, Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen, International Markets. “Popeyes is one of the fastest growing restaurant brands in the US. Our entry into Romania illustrates our commitment to serving our signature blend of spices, flavors and experience to more guests around the world.”

This partnership continues Popeyes’ expansion efforts in Europe, where the restaurant chain is already present in Spain and Switzerland, with a location in the United Kingdom set to launch later this year. Popeyes’ world-famous items, including the brand’s namesake Chicken Sandwich and more, will soon be available to Romanian chicken fans. For nearly 50 years, Popeyes has followed the same recipe: its famed fried chicken is marinated for at least 12 hours, then battered and breaded by hand before being slow cooked to perfection using a patented cooking technique. An in-house staff of highly trained chefs oversees the menu, with a love for honoring the past while modernizing Louisiana flavor, food, and traditions.

“We are incredibly proud to bring the famous Popeyes brand to diners in Romania. Our guests will love the iconic Popeyes experience and incredible chicken that makes this brand so famous around the globe,” said a spokesperson for Sterling Cruise. “In addition, this new market entry will contribute to the Romanian economy by creating hundreds of new jobs over the coming years. We couldn’t be more excited.”

Popeyes is dedicated to providing guests with a best-in-class guest experience, both in-restaurant and online, in addition to its delectable food. The company is introducing its industry-leading digital experience to Romania, with a focus on making food ordering as simple as possible. Digital Ordering Screens, Mobile Ordering, Table Service, and Delivery will all be available in Popeyes locations, allowing visitors to order and enjoy delicious Popeyes food in the most convenient way possible.

Sterling Cruise is a multi-brand restaurant business that began operations in 2014 and now has around 40 locations across Romania. In 2022, the first Popeyes restaurant in Romania will open.