Plano, Texas — KFC has opened its 30,000th location globally with a new restaurant in Rome, Italy. After the brand opened its very first restaurant in 1952, a new KFC location now opens somewhere in the world every 3.5 hours on average. KFC plans to enter its 150th country later this year.
“Opening our 30,000th restaurant is a testament to the support of our local business partners, employees and customers over the past nearly 75 years,” says Sabir Sami, CEO of KFC Global. “While we are a global brand, we aim to meet the unique needs and expectations of our guests on a local level, with menus that resonate with the local culture and flavors of each community.”
KFC currently has the widest global footprint of any quick-service restaurant brand with no plans to slow down. In 2023, KFC opened nearly 2,700 new restaurants across 96 countries including throughout India and Latin America. As part of Yum! Brands, the world’s largest restaurant company, KFC’s portfolio is a major growth engine accounting for 50% of Yum!’s divisional operating profit.
KFC is focused on driving accessible, connected experiences through digital investments; innovative menus; and drive-thru optimization.
“The pace of our development would not be possible without our trusted franchise partners who share our vision and drive for excellence, innovation and building with purpose,” says Nivera Wallani, KFC Global’s chief development officer.
The new restaurant in Rome features double-sided kiosks and digital menu boards. Master franchisee COB S.R.L. and its franchise partners plan to open 25+ new KFCs across Italy and will collectively surpass 100 KFC restaurants later this year.
KFC is a subsidiary of Yum! Brands, Inc.
SOURCE: KFC