Sailormen Inc., one of the largest U.S. franchisees of Popeyes, is closing numerous locations as part of its Chapter 11 bankruptcy proceedings. A bankruptcy judge has approved the closure of at least 18 restaurants across Florida and Georgia. The company, which once operated nearly 130 locations, failed to find buyers for 52 of its restaurants at auction.
The franchisee filed for bankruptcy protection in January 2026, citing liquidity pressures. A court hearing scheduled for June 26 will determine the fate of the remaining locations. This large-scale restructuring represents a significant event for the Popeyes brand, which is a key component of Restaurant Brands International's portfolio. The closures will impact QSR's system-wide sales and regional market share.