KFC has announced a £1.5bn ($2bn) investment in the UK and Ireland up to 2029, aimed at modernising its restaurants.
The fast-food chain will create 7,000 new jobs and contribute a substantial £169m to the UK economy through the initiative.
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The investment will be channelled into upgrading several existing KFC restaurants and increasing the brand’s presence with up to 500 new locations.
A particular emphasis will be placed on drive-throughs and regions poised for growth, such as the northwest of England, and Ireland.
£466m is earmarked for new site development, with a further 20% of KFC’s present establishments – more than 200 restaurants – scheduled for refurbishment to enhance design.
KFC UK and Ireland general manager Rob Swain stated: “We’ve never seen such strong demand for freshly prepared fried chicken as we’re seeing today.
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By GlobalData“That’s why we’re doubling down on our commitment to the UK and Ireland with a major investment in our restaurants and in the suppliers who have been so crucial to our success.”
KFC’s planned growth will boost job opportunities, including kitchen and management positions within 270 of its restaurants and its 27 UK franchise partners’ network, employing 30,000 individuals.
Welcoming the investment, UKHospitality CEO Kate Nicholls stated: “Hospitality’s ability to create places where people want to live, work and invest is unrivalled.
“This significant announcement from KFC is proof of that, and will help to drive socially productive growth, deliver economically and support employment across the UK.”
As the UK’s fried chicken market experiences a boom, reaching a valuation of £3.1bn, competition has intensified with the entry of US brands such as Wingstop and Popeyes.
In March 2025, KFC launched a “Dunk It Bucket” featuring the brand’s latest menu addition — mashed potato poppers.
