The first Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen restaurant in the Southern Tier is expected to fire up operations soon.

Bob Joseph/WNBF News
Bob Joseph/WNBF News
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A partner in the New Jersey-based company which is launching the franchise operation on Binghamton's West Side told WNBF News the restaurant is scheduled to open on December 15.

Shahid Imran said he understands "people are excited" about the Popeyes restaurant which has been under construction at 162 Main Street. Popeyes is noted for its "Southern fried chicken."

Imran said the operating hours for the Binghamton restaurant are expected to be from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. He said the hours on weekend may be extended if demand warrants.

Imran said between 60 and 70 people are expected to be hired for the business. Most of the jobs are part-time, although a few are full-time positions.

Although there are several other quick-service restaurants near the new Popeyes unit, Imran said the competition will be good. He said: "We are not scared of them."

AR Restaurant Group is planning to open additional Popeyes restaurants in the Scranton area next year.

Imran said additional upstate locations are being considered in Ithaca and Big Flats.

Bob Joseph/WNBF News
Bob Joseph/WNBF News
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