KFC, the UK’s favourite chicken restaurant, will create 1,600 new jobs by opening more than 40 restaurants in the UK and Ireland in 2013.
The announcement demonstrates KFC’s continued growth in the UK, having recorded seven consecutive years of same-store-sales growth, opening at least thirty new restaurants each year. In 2012, the company opened 40 restaurants, its highest ever single-year figure, and this year expects to break that record again, investing £40m in the process.
In addition to expanding its estate, KFC is investing in innovation at existing restaurants, spending an additional £40m to refurbish 160 stores. The renovations will transform the look and feel of the restaurants to create a more modern, welcoming environment for customers.
Martin Shuker, Managing Director, KFC UK & Ireland, said:
“We’ve achieved consistent growth over the last seven years by innovating for success, and we plan to continue that in 2013. By opening new sites, improving the customer experience, introducing new technology and investing in our people, we’re confident that we will be well-placed to continue our upward trajectory.”
KFC innovations
KFC is also trialling a click and collect iPhone app, as well as innovating back-of-house, introducing state-of-the-art equipment that keeps food fresh for longer and reduces energy use, and cookers that use less oil.
Further innovation in the kitchen includes plans to expand the grilled range, introduced two years ago to provide a selection of lighter options, as well as an updated kids’ menu, brand new fries, and a range of high quality coffee.
Britain’s Top Employer
Last week, KFC was named as Britain’s Top Employer, becoming the first business ever to be receive the accolade two years in a row. This is the latest recognition the company has received for the work it is doing with its people, which includes being named as a Great Place to Work for the last three years, and a Top 100 Apprenticeship Employer.
About KFC:
KFC is the world’s largest chain of chicken-based quick service restaurants and came to Britain in 1965, with the first store opening in Preston, Lancashire. There are now 850 stores across the UK, with over 24,000 employees.
KFC has made considerable nutritional improvements in the last few years, cutting salt by as much as 50% and switching cooking oils to cut saturated fat levels in Original Recipe Chicken by up to 25%. KFC has also expanded its range to include lighter options, such as the Rancher, KFC’s first non-fried product.
For more information click here