The wildly popular Popeyes chicken sandwich was first introduced in August 2019, but after just two weeks it sold out at locations across the country due to overwhelming demand. Many disappointed customers were left wondering when the viral sandwich would make its return. Here’s a look back at the timeline of events surrounding the relaunch of the Popeyes chicken sandwich.
The Debut and Rapid Sell-Out
On August 12, 2019, Popeyes first launched its new crispy chicken sandwich at select locations across the United States. It featured a buttermilk fried chicken breast fillet, pickles, and a unique mayo sauce on a brioche bun. The sandwich quickly drew attention on social media as people posted reviews and photos, with many saying it was superior to chicken sandwiches from competitors like Chick-fil-A.
Within just two weeks, the Popeyes chicken sandwich had completely sold out at locations nationwide. Popeyes stated that the sandwich had been more popular than expected and that they were working to bring it back as soon as possible. Many questioned if they had intentionally limited supply as a marketing tactic to build hype around the new menu item.
Attempts to Bring It Back
By the end of August 2019, Popeyes had run out of chicken sandwich inventory across all 2,400 U.S. locations. Customers grew increasingly impatient waiting for its return. Popeyes attempted to bring the sandwich back in early September, but supply issues forced another delay after just two days.
Popeyes stated they were having trouble keeping up with the demand, as their suppliers could not produce enough chicken breast fillets and brioche buns at the rate needed to keep making the sandwiches. The quick sellouts also led to long lines, crowds, and even instances of violence at some Popeyes locations.
The Official Relaunch
After over two months of waiting, Popeyes finally announced the official return of their popular chicken sandwich on November 3, 2019 for National Sandwich Day. This time around, Popeyes said they had secured enough supply to meet the demand.
True to their word, locations were able to keep the sandwich in stock this time. The relaunch went smoothly without any major shortages reported. Popeyes continued selling the sandwich at all locations permanently going forward.
Ongoing Popularity
In the years since, the Popeyes chicken sandwich has remained a strong menu item for the chain. It continued garnering buzz and tasting victories over competitors in various public polls and taste tests. The sandwich likely contributed to strong sales growth for Popeyes in 2020 and 2021.
Popeyes has also expanded the sandwich’s options over time. This includes adding spicy and deluxe versions, a chicken nugget version, and even a chocolate-stuffed chicken sandwich for Valentine’s Day 2020.
Impact on the Chicken Sandwich Wars
The massive popularity of the Popeyes chicken sandwich is credited with kicking off a new era of competition in the fast food industry referred to as the “chicken sandwich wars.” Chains like Wendy’s, Shake Shack, and McDonald’s scrambled to elevate their own chicken sandwiches in response.
Popeyes proved there was massive demand out there for a uniquely delicious chicken sandwich. Their competitors realized they would need to innovate with premium ingredients and new flavors to keep up. The result has been a surge of gourmet, critically-acclaimed chicken sandwiches across chain restaurants.
Conclusion
After months of shortages and hype, the Popeyes chicken sandwich finally returned nationwide on November 3, 2019. Its relaunch went smoothly this time, allowing Popeyes to permanently bring back the viral menu item to satisfied customers. The sandwich kicked off a new level of innovation and competition in the fast food chicken sandwich market that still rages on years later. With its runaway success, the Popeyes chicken sandwich cemented itself as one of the most influential menu items in recent fast food history.