We've been hearing it for awhile, but it's finally confirmed: Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen is out scouting the office market for at least 40K SF of office space, says Stan Stout, the chief people and technology officer for the restaurant?s parent company AFC Enterprises.

Joel & Granot— the new firm partnered by industry vets Alan Joel and Danny Granot — has the assignment. Stout tells us the company is evaluating a list of some 20 to 25 potential office towers, stretching from Buckhead  to Central Perimeter and as far north as Northridge Parkway. That list should be pared down within 30 days, he says. Popeyes is currently located in Glenridge Highlands I  with about 34K SF, according to CoStar. Stout tells us the company wants to be within a ?reasonable radius?  of Glenridge Highlands I, taking into account its employees? commutes. ?We would like a decision if possible by year end,? Stout adds.