KFC sets 1,000-restaurant goal by 2020
KFC has outlined a target to open 65 locations in the UK and Ireland, to bring its total restaurant count to 1,000 by 2020.
The fast-food chain, which currently has 935 restaurants, forecast that at least 40 sites will open in 2019, with “much of the groundwork” already done on this pipeline.
KFC will also launch new concepts such as modular builds, with its first modular build slated to launch in Liverpool this year.
KFC has outlined a target to open 65 locations in the UK and Ireland, to bring its total restaurant count to 1,000 by 2020.
The fast-food chain, which currently has 935 restaurants, forecast that at least 40 sites will open in 2019, with “much of the groundwork” already done on this pipeline.
KFC will also launch new concepts such as modular builds, with its first modular build slated to launch in Liverpool this year.
It also aims to trial new “compact” drive-thrus measuring 800 sq ft, which it said were small enough to potentially replace redundant car wash sites at petrol stations, or 18 parking spaces in a retail or supermarket car park.
KFC added that it is “always seeking new sites or new innovative partnerships with property owners”.
Paul Stokes, head of franchise development at KFC, said: “We want to cement our position at the forefront of the industry, and our ambition for further openings this year and beyond means we are always on the lookout for new sites or new partnerships with key landlords and developers.”
During 2018, the fast-food chain opened 43 new restaurants, which marked the largest number of annual openings in 15 years.
More than half of these were found by its franchise partners, which include Euro Garages, Moto and Applegreen.
The expansion also marks a net increase of 33% on the previous year.
To send feedback, e-mail pui-guan.man@egi.co.uk or tweet @PuiGuanM or @estatesgazette
