The chicken sensation that impacted communities across the nation, the Popeyes chicken sandwich is bringing with it a future full of excitement, as well as some unforeseen problems.
New York Post reporter Michael Hollan recently published an article warning lovers of the exclusive and elusive chicken sandwich that the unexpected popularity of the meal may have recently caused a minor, however highly surprising, shortage of smaller chickens that were the primary source of meat for the meal. Hollan reported after picking up the initial story from Bloomberg News that “the shortage of these smaller chickens played a role in Popeyes struggles to keep their sandwiches in stock.”
Executive vice president of analytics at supply-chain consultant ArrowStream, David Maloni, told reporters from Bloomberg that “smaller birds also take fast-food chains less labor as meat doesn’t need to be cut apart to fit the buns.” Because of the combination of cheaper and effectively sized chicken as well as even more effective marketing, the fast food chain caused all chicken sandwich boats to float due to the rising tide of enthusiasm. Maloni pointed at that in 2019, “Chick-fil-A’s total sales rose by 13%, while Popeyes’ same-store sales rose 10%.”
Now that the pandora’s box of the chicken sandwich wars has been opened, the competing fast food chains will have to find out how to either work with each other in order to not deplete the population of the much desired smaller sized chickens, or find alternative ways of working with existing farms and suppliers in order to have enough supply to keep up with market demand. After all, consumers have a taste for this specific bird and now fast food chains have to satisfy them or else lose their much eager customers.
Wendy’s saw this coming, according to Fox News. Wendy’s began using these smaller chickens in 2017, particularly because customers reported enjoying the “tenderness and juiciness” as they ate their sandwich.
The Fox News story continued to point at that apart from the obvious chicken sandwich competitors, now McDonalds has announced “it would add two chicken sandwiches to its breakfast menu” in addition to their current chicken sandwich lineup.
Regardless as to the current issue regarding the supply of chicken, even if some sandwiches such as the one from Popeyes are only seasonal, the fanbase alone seems to be keeping the legend of the sandwich and enthusiasm for it much alive. Such over-the-top displays of fan love now include such things as the Popeyes’ chicken sandwich “ugly sweater” which is as ridiculous as it sounds.
Popeye’s FAQs
Does Popeye’s have chicken sandwiches?
Yes, Popeyes released a chicken sandwich in August, 2019 that had heaps of popularity surrounding it.
What’s so great about Popeyes chicken sandwich?
Other than the anticipation built up over the chicken- based brand finally having a chicken sandwich, the item is also made with excellent flavors and said to be the crispiest fast food chicken sandwich out there. Plus, since it’s fast food, you get the quality item without the wait and commitment to sitting at a restaurant.
Why did they discontinue Popeyes Chicken Sandwich?
They discontinued the chicken po’ boy to replace it with the new fried chicken sandwich for more press toward the new item. They also had to temporarily stop production of the new chicken sandwich because the item was running out of inventory from its popularity.
Is the chicken sandwich back at Popeyes?
Yes, after the sandwich sold out in a matter of days, they discontinued the item until releasing it again on November, 3, 2019. This was fitting since it was “national sandwich day”. You can currently still get the new chicken sandwich at Popeyes locations.
What is the big deal with Popeyes Chicken Sandwich?
There are many factors that aided in its popularity. One was that the sandwich was hyped up by the press and long- awaited release of the sandwich. Also, people think it’s really good. It’s claimed to be the crispiest chicken sandwich and have unique flavors to it.
Is the Popeyes Chicken sandwich worth the hype?
As far as a fast- food chicken sandwich, the Popeyes chicken sandwich seems to be a wise choice. There is both an option for spicy or not spicy, the breading is crispy, and it’s quickly made and delivered to you. No waiting in restaurants for a great chicken sandwich.
