Yum! Brands' worldwide system sales rise

Yum! Brands, Inc. reported results for the second quarter ended June 30, 2017.

The second quarter highlights include the worldwide system sales growth of 6% in KFC and 2% for Pizza Hut.

KFC Division system sales increased 7%, excluding foreign currency translation. It has opened 241 new international restaurants in 56 countries, including 202 units in emerging markets. KFC UK has reported a 6% rise in system sales for the second quarter.

Also, Pizza Hut Group opened 142 new international restaurants in 42 countries, including 103 units in emerging markets. The Group’s operating margin increased 7.8 percentage points. Pizza Hut U.K. reported a 4% increase in its system sales (ex FX).

Greg Creed, CEO, said, “I’m pleased Yum! Brands’ intensified focus on our four distinct growth drivers helped deliver another successful quarter. Core operating profit grew 19% and EPS excluding special items grew 21% during the second quarter. We are maintaining our full-year 2017 guidance and are on pace with our multi-year transformation strategy designed to further unlock shareholder value.”