Restaurant chain Popeyes has secured an investment of £50m from private equity firm TDR Capital in the UK, according to a report by The Caterer.

The restaurant will use the investment to support the brand’s growth.

Popeyes entered the UK market in 2021 by opening its first location in Stratford. Since then, the restaurant chain has been expanding its footprint in the country.

The publication quoted Popeyes chief executive Tom Crowley as saying: “We have a significant and strong pipeline of restaurants with landlords across the country recognising the opportunity of working with us and actively approaching us with good incentives.

“This investment allows us to fully capitalise on these opportunities.

“TDR will bring its extensive experience to our business and we look forward to partnering with the team alongside our current owners Ring International Holdings on the next phase of growth for Popeyes UK.”

The private equity firm also backs Stonegate Pub Company, which is said to be the UK's largest pub group.

TDR Capital managing partner Tom Mitchell said: “The "significant demand" for Popeyes made it an "exciting, long-term investment opportunity" for the group.”

In February this year, Popeyes unveiled plans to open seven new restaurant outlets in the UK.

The company intends to open its restaurants in Cambridge, Reading, Cardiff, Plymouth, Richmond, Rotherham and Barrhead.

According to The Mirror, the seven restaurants will also include Popeyes’ first drive-through site in the country.