KFC has announced ambitious expansion plans that will create 7,000 new jobs and see 500 additional restaurants open across the UK and Ireland over the next decade, backed by a massive €1.8 billion investment.
The fast-food giant says demand for fried chicken has never been stronger, driving the company to significantly expand its presence in both countries. The investment represents one of the largest commitments by a major food chain in recent years.
Of the total investment, approximately €556 million will go directly toward opening new restaurants, with particular focus on flagship locations and drive-through sites in Ireland and northwest England. The company has identified these regions as having especially strong growth potential for its brand.
The expansion will also see substantial upgrades to existing locations, with more than 200 restaurants set to receive makeovers representing about one-fifth of KFC’s entire UK and Ireland chain. These refurbishments will include new designs and the latest digital ordering features to improve customer experience.
To accelerate site acquisition, KFC is offering substantial incentives to property professionals, with finder’s fees of up to £20,000 (€23,800) available to landlords and property experts who identify suitable locations for new restaurants.
The job creation spans multiple areas of the business, from traditional restaurant and kitchen positions to management roles and a newly created “guest experience” position designed to enhance customer service across the chain. Employment opportunities will extend beyond restaurants to include positions throughout KFC’s supply chain network.
Currently operating more than 1,000 restaurants across the UK and Ireland with approximately 30,000 employees, KFC’s expansion represents significant growth for the brand’s regional presence. The company expects to complete the job creation within five years.
Investment will also flow to KFC’s supplier network, with additional spending planned for fresh chicken, gravy, and salad ingredients to support the expanded operations.
Rob Swain, KFC UK and Ireland’s general manager, emphasized the unprecedented demand driving the expansion. “We’ve been serving customers in the UK for 60 years now, but we’ve never seen such strong demand for freshly prepared, fried chicken as we’re seeing today,” he said.
Swain added that the investment demonstrates the company’s long-term commitment to the region, stating they are “doubling down” on their presence in the UK and Ireland markets.
The announcement comes as the fast-food industry continues to evolve, with chains investing heavily in drive-through capabilities and digital ordering systems to meet changing consumer preferences accelerated by the pandemic.