Nation's Restaurant News: RBI profits rise as unit counts increase

Annual same-store sales may be down for Tim Hortons and Popeyes, but Restaurant Brands International is still experiencing growth through the success of Burger King. According to a recent article in Nation's Restaurant News, the parent company saw its net income grow by $626.1 million in 2017 compared to $345.6 in 2016.

Despite a dip in sales overall, Tim Hortons and Popeyes did see a positive uptick in the fourth quarter. CEO Daniel Schwartz said the brand is, "pleased to report another year of strong results."

The company will seek growth opportunities for both brands in 2018. Tim Hortons recently launched its mobile app and introduced espresso to the menu. Restaurant Brands International will focus on building a reputation of coffee leadership for the company this year.

Popeyes was a new acquisition in 2017, and the parent brand will work to expand its international footprint in 2018 following the recent opening of its first South Africa location.

“The thing that maybe got us the most excited about Popeyes from the beginning was the ability to grow the brand all around the world, in so many of these global markets,” said Schwartz.