American fast-food chain Popeyes is set to launch 1,700 new outlets in China over the next ten years, starting with ten new stores this year, Chinese news agency Xinhua reported.

These stores will be operated by Tim Hortons China, which acquired exclusive rights this March to develop and sub-franchise the restaurant brand in mainland China and Macao.  

According to Tim Hortons China CEO Lu Yongchen, Tim Hortons has upgraded Popeyes' products and store design. The firm is also optimistic about the scope of the catering market in China.

Recently released guidelines by the State Council related to further optimisation of foreign investment are claimed to have increased confidence in foreign brands, Yongchen was quoted as saying by the news agency.

Yongchen noted: “China's catering market is huge, and brands can achieve rapid growth as long as they do their own business well. We will work closely with Popeyes for collaborative development and will support and empower each other in terms of industrial chains, supply chains and digital operations.”

The combination with Popeyes was approved by the board of Tim Hortons China in February this year.

Earlier this month, Popeyes announced plans to open its first outlet in Glasgow, Scotland, at Barrhead’s retail park.

Expected to launch later this year, the new store is expected to include a drive-through facility.