KFC has announced plans to open 500 new restaurants and create 7,000 jobs as part of a £1.49 billion investment across the UK and Ireland, in what is set to be one of the biggest expansions in its 60-year history.
The fast food giant’s move comes amid growing competition from rapidly expanding rivals like Popeyes and Wingstop, both of which have been scaling up operations in recent years.
A £466 Million Restaurant Boom
Of the total investment, £466 million will fund 500 new locations, with a focus on Ireland and the North West of England, helping KFC tap into previously underserved areas.
In addition to opening new branches, around 200 existing stores—nearly one-fifth of KFC’s UK and Ireland estate—will be upgraded with modern designs and advanced digital ordering systems.
7,000 New Jobs to Be Created
KFC’s bold expansion will also lead to the creation of 7,000 new jobs, including:
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Restaurant managers
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Kitchen staff
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New “guest experience” team members tasked with enhancing customer satisfaction
Supply Chain Boost
The investment will also benefit KFC’s supply chain, with dedicated funding for:
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Fresh UK-sourced chicken
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Gravy production
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Salad ingredients
“Unprecedented Demand,” Says KFC Boss
Rob Swain, General Manager of KFC UK and Ireland, said:
“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. This investment is about meeting that demand while doubling down on our commitment to communities and employees across the UK and Ireland.”
KFC currently operates over 1,000 restaurants and employs around 30,000 staff across the region.
