KFC responds to Popeyes with news that'll delight the United Kingdom

KFC has just announced a major investment for the United Kingdom and Ireland. It plans to open 500 new restaurants over the next ten years. In addition, it will create 7,000 jobs. This is a direct response to the rise in competition, especially Popeyes, which is also looking to grow in these markets.

Currently, KFC has more than 1,000 locations in these areas and employs about 30,000 people. With this investment, it wants to renovate more than 200 existing restaurants. They will be modernized with new designs and digital technology to improve the customer experience.

Rob Swain is the general manager of KFC UK and Ireland. He stated: "We've been serving customers in the United Kingdom for 60 years. However, we've never seen such strong demand for freshly prepared fried chicken as we see today." He also said that the company is "doubling down on its commitment" to the British and Irish market.

Part of the plan includes opening flagship and drive-thru restaurants in areas such as Ireland and the Northwest of England. These areas have growing demand. In addition, KFC will offer up to £20,000 to real estate agents and property owners who help them find new locations.

The investment will also support the supply chain. Funds will be allocated to purchase fresh chicken, gravy, and salads. In addition, jobs will be created in restaurants, in kitchens, managerial positions, and a new role called "customer experience."

KFC Wants to Be King Outside the United States Too

In the United Kingdom, competition for the fried chicken market is strong. McDonald's, Popeyes, Morley's, and Chicken Cottage are also fighting to attract customers. One example is Streatham High Road, in South London. In less than 1.2 mi. (2 km), there are 29 fried chicken shops, the highest concentration in the country.

Morley's, founded in 1985 by a Tamil immigrant from Sri Lanka, has about 100 locations in London. McDonald's is the American chain with the most locations in the United Kingdom: 1,442 since 1974. KFC arrived earlier, in 1965, and today has 1,040 restaurants.

The popularity of fried chicken is also growing thanks to social media. The series "Chicken Shop Date," by Amelia Dimoldenburg, where she dines with celebrities in local shops, has boosted demand. Guests such as Billie Eilish, Ryan Reynolds, and Hugh Jackman have participated.

The YouTube group Sidemen also contributed to the success of fried chicken. In 2021 they opened their own chain called Sides, which was very well received.

With this plan, KFC seeks to keep its leadership and grow outside the United States. It wants to offer more options to fried chicken fans in the United Kingdom and Ireland. It is a clear signal to its global competitors.