Popeyes UK has launched a new learning and development programme as it looks to build future leaders across its growing restaurant estate.

The quick-service restaurant brand, which now operates more than 110 sites across the UK, has unveiled Popeyes University, a new training platform designed to support staff across its head office and restaurant teams.

At the centre of the programme is the “Louisiana Ladder”, a structured development pathway aimed at helping employees progress from entry-level restaurant roles into operations manager positions.

As part of the launch, Popeyes is also introducing “Brass Roots”, a new apprenticeship programme offering nationally recognised Level 3 and Level 4 hospitality qualifications.

The business has committed to taking on 25 apprentices during 2026, with six already enrolled.

Popeyes will also take part in the UK Youth Summer Jobs Programme for the first time this year.

Running between July and September 2026, the scheme will offer young people employment opportunities designed to help prepare them for future work.

Participants will complete a one-week paid pre-employment training course before moving into a five-week paid placement, giving them experience in a live working environment.

The launch of Popeyes University comes as the brand continues its rapid UK expansion. Since entering the market in 2021, Popeyes has grown to more than 110 restaurants and around 3,500 employees.

The business is planning further openings across the UK and Ireland in 2026.

Popeyes UK has also been recognised as an employer, having been named in The Sunday Times Best Places to Work 2025 and included in the World’s Happiest Workplaces Award list for 2026.

Popeyes UK chief people officer Matt Hudson said: “We’re incredibly proud of the culture we’ve built at Popeyes, which has been recognised through awards such as The Sunday Times Best Places to Work and the World’s Happiest Workplaces list.

“Popeyes University is the next step in that journey. It’s about giving our ‘joy creators’ clear pathways to grow, develop new skills and build long-term careers with us.

“As we continue to expand, creating opportunities for our people and developing the next generation of leaders will remain a key focus for the business.”

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