Popeyes franchisee Sailormen files for Chapter 11 in Florida

Core Insights - Sailormen, a franchisee of Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen, has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in the US Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of Florida, citing prolonged effects of the Covid-19 pandemic, inflation, high borrowing rates, and a limited qualified labor force as key factors [1][2] Financial Performance - In the fiscal year ending 2025, Sailormen reported over $233 million in sales but incurred a net operating loss of nearly $19 million [1] - The company attempted to alleviate financial strain by selling 16 Popeyes restaurants in 2023, but the transaction collapsed, leaving Sailormen responsible for the leases of those locations [2] Operational Overview - Sailormen currently operates 136 Popeyes restaurants across Florida and Georgia, employing 3,306 individuals, including 3,272 hourly workers as of January 15, 2026 [2] - The company was established in 1984 and has undergone various expansions and contractions, including selling operations in several states between 2012 and 2018 to focus on development in Florida and Georgia [3][4] Ownership and History - Interfoods of America holds 100% ownership of Sailormen's outstanding capital stock [4] - The company was acquired in July 1987 by businessmen Bob Berg and Steve Wemple, who expanded its operations significantly in the following years [3]