A surprised woman holds her glasses in front of the McDonald's and Popeyes restaurants, divided by a torn line down the center.
CONSUMER AFFAIRS

Popeye's knocks out McDonald's: the new trend that's already taking the US by storm

Popeye’s surprises with a launch that challenges McDonald’s and revolutionizes the fast food offering in the U.S

The rivalry between major fast food chains never stops, and this time Popeyes has delivered a strong blow. While McDonald’s fans are waiting for the return of their famous Snack Wrap, Popeyes has launched a new addition that's causing a sensation. The competition to win over fried chicken lovers is more alive than ever in the United States.

On Monday, June 2, Popeyes announced the addition of their new Chicken Wraps, available nationwide for a limited time. This offering arrives just before the desired return of McDonald’s Snack Wrap, scheduled for July 10. This way, Popeyes is taking the opportunity to offer a fresh and different alternative to their customers.

Facade of a Popeyes restaurant with a neon rooster sign and a food poster at the entrance.
The new chicken wraps have been available since June 2 | Popeyes

Chicken wraps: Popeyes's winning bet

The new Chicken Wraps from Popeyes are a generous and carefully crafted version of the classic chicken wrap. For just $3.99, customers can choose from three bold flavors: Classic, Spicy, or Honey Mustard. Each wrap contains tender, hand-breaded, and crispy chicken, accompanied by fresh lettuce, shredded cheese, and crunchy pickles.

What truly sets this offering apart is the tortilla inspired by Popeyes's famous biscuits. Amy Alarcon, vice president of culinary innovation, explained in a statement, "We've taken our chicken tenders and wrapped them in something new, with that irresistible crunch in a portable form." She also added that "infusing the flavors of our biscuit into the wraps was the perfect way to make sure our signature flavors shined."

This launch is not just about a new product, but a clear commitment to keep Popeyes's unique identity in every bite. The chain is betting that this launch will win over both their loyal customers and those looking for something different in the world of fast food, reports New York Post.

Three burritos wrapped in paper with fried chicken, lettuce, pickles, and shredded cheese stacked on a table in front of an orange wall
Popeye’s launches three new chicken wraps for .99 | Popeyes

Innovative drinks to accompany the experience

In addition to the new wrap, Popeyes has expanded their drink menu with a fresh and fruity touch. Inspired by the viral success of their Pickle Lemonade, they now present Blueberry Lemonade in two versions: cold or frozen, both for $3.99. They are also adding two blueberry teas, one sweetened with cane sugar and one unsweetened, available for $2.99.

This line of drinks reinforces Popeyes's intention to offer not just food, but a complete and distinctive experience. The combination of citrus and fruit flavors is designed to attract both young customers and those looking for refreshing options.

Two breaded chicken burritos with lettuce and cheese, served with a pink drink with ice and a straw on a blue table and an orange background.
The new wraps arrive along with a line of fruit teas | Popeyes

McDonald’s launched their McCrispy Strips in April and continues preparing for the return of the Snack Wrap. Joe Erlinger, president of McDonald’s USA, stated that these chicken strips will "eventually allow us to have a McCrispy Snack Wrap." Despite this, Popeyes has taken the lead, winning the public's attention with their fresh and bold offering.

Popeyes is not only responding to a market demand in the United States, but is also posing a direct challenge to their main competitor. With their Chicken Wraps and innovative drinks, the fried chicken chain shows that they know how to reinvent themselves to keep on top and knock out McDonald’s, at least for now.

➡️ Consumer Affairs

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