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]

Core Insights - A Popeyes franchisee, Sailormen, Inc., has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy due to significant debt and adverse market conditions [2][4] - The company reported debts nearing $130 million, attributed to the lasting impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, inflation, and a limited qualified labor force [2][3] - Sailormen, Inc. operates 136 Popeyes locations in Florida and Georgia, employing 3,272 hourly workers as of the filing date [3][4] Company Background - Sailormen, Inc. was founded in 1984 to operate Popeyes restaurants and was acquired in 1987, initially operating 11 locations in Miami [6] - The company expanded into several new markets from 1995 to 2000, including Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Louisiana, Missouri, and Mississippi [7] - Between 2012 and 2018, Sailormen sold off markets outside Florida and Georgia to focus on new store development in these states [7]