KFC eyes 300 restaurant openings in UK and Ireland by 2027

The fast food giant aims to establish 50 new locations across the two markets this year.

KFC’s operations in the UK and Ireland (UK&I) said it has plans to open 300 new restaurants in the region over the next five years.

The announcement follows the opening of its 1,000th restaurant in the UK&I.

“We’ve been on a transformation journey over the last five years to become a more connected and vibrant business,” KFC UK&I general manager Paula MacKenzie said in a statement sent to local media. “Reaching 1,000 restaurants is a testament to our growth and commitment to serving delicious fried chicken up and down the country.”

This year, the fast food giant aims to open 50 new locations across the UK&I, which they expect to create 1,500 new employment opportunities. 

KFC said its expansion plan is backed by major investment in its staff. Currently, it has a workforce of 27,000 in the UK&I.

Under its franchise model, the brand works with 33 different franchisees in the two markets.

“From Dundee to Newquay, we’re in more communities than ever before. We know the role restaurants like ours play in employment levels and upskilling the next generation,” MacKenzie said. “We want to be good business and a good neighbour and are committed to ensuring this remains the case as our growth continues with greater investment in our people and in our communities.”