Three die-hard fans have been camping outside Popeyes in Maidstone since 2.30pm on Thursday – all vying to be first in line for a year’s supply of chicken sandwiches.
The new branch officially opens at 11am on Friday, but these eager birds started their wait early. Now that’s what you call dedication!
The Trio have braved the cold conditions to camp overnight in hopes to be among the first inside Popeye’s latest UK restaurant.
The first few customers joined the queue at 11pm on Thursday, with dozens more joining throughout the early morning ahead of the doors opening at around 11am on Friday.
Many who queued were self-confessed “super-fans” of the fried chicken franchise and were eager to get their hands on “exclusive” merch and a free chicken sandwich, while others said they were simply excited to try something new.
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The restaurant was also offering the most eager fans a chance to win a pass to order free Deluxe Chicken Sandwiches for a full year.
Alex arrived at 11pm on Thursday evening and won the year of free sandwiches, explaining: “I heard from a friend about the opening. It’s the home of Louisiana chicken, so I felt like I had to try and win it – I’m ecstatic to have won!”
Emmanuel, who was among the first to arrive, shared his excitement: “I’ve never tried 1 before! We queued for around five hours – mostly for my love of chicken! I’m so excited, I’m going to be here like every week!”
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A colouring sheet was made in collaboration with a local artist (Image: Supplied)
The opening event featured a DJ booth set up in the restaurant and offered children the chance to get involved by designing a sidekick for the brand’s mascot “Poppy”.
Families were also offered a colouring sheet, designed by local artist Laura Darling, which the brand said pays homage to the city’s cultural heritage.
Tom Crowley, chief executive at Popeyes UK, said: “The response we’ve seen in 1 today has been nothing short of amazing, especially for our ninth opening in Scotland.
“It’s been a fantastic opportunity to collaborate with Laura on our family activity sheet and inject some local talent into the launch.”
