KFC to revamp stores, menu, packaging, branding
Kentucky Fried Chicken is globally refreshing its operations.
The leading fried chicken chain, a subsidiary of Yum! Brands, is launching a widespread effort to update its business that includes next-generation store concepts and a new focus on boneless chicken menu items. Following are highlights from the KFC business renewal initiative:
Store design
The company says the experience in its restaurants will “feel different” beginning this summer with a new generation of store environments designed for hospitality, not just efficiency. According to KFC, the environments will feel more dynamic and adapt throughout the day to meet different occasions.
The first two stores featuring next-gen concepts will be an open-concept design in McKinney, Texas the company says will “reinterpret its heritage with modern energy,” expected to open late summer 2026; and a fully immersive, two-story restaurant in Dubai opening fall 2026.
[READ MORE: KFC goes big in Rome with one of its most ambitious restaurants in Europe yet]
Menu
Beginning with a rollout in the U.K. and Ireland in the coming weeks, KFC will feature tenders and other boneless chicken options paired with sauces from a new global sauce “pantry” featuring more than 20 sauces the company says is designed to tap into growing consumer demand for personalization and “sensory flavor experiences.” Markets can tailor these sauces to local tastes, with examples including chimichurri ranch and hot honey habanero.
Select U.K. and Ireland locations also feature “Kwench by KFC,” a global beverage platform featuring items including boba refreshers, krunch shakes, sparkling lemonades and iced coffees. Kwench by KFC will expand from pilot to permanent menu in Australia and Canada during 2026.
And already available in South Africa and India, Dunked menu items are tenders, wings and sandwiches drenched in sauce that KFC says are designed to meet growing consumer demand for more “indulgent, sauce-forward” menu experiences.
Branding
KFC is evolving its brand assets in an effort to be more relevant and in tune with modern culture. At the center is a refreshed bucket, which KFC calls it most recognizable asset, with a subtle evolution of the Colonel brand icon. The updated branding will be featured across packaging, digital platforms, advertising and restaurant environments.
“In an increasingly crowded category, we have a clear opportunity to set the standard for modern chicken in QSR,” said Scott Mezvinsky, CEO, KFC Global. “This next chapter brings new energy and expression to what makes us iconic, while doubling down on our chicken and reimagining how fans experience KFC around the world.”
KFC is a subsidiary of Yum! Brands Inc. operating more than 34,000 restaurants in over 150 countries.
