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KFC

Information based on 2024 FDD
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Brand Highlights
  • Founded in 1930
  • Franchising Since 1952
  • 3715 US Franchises
  • $1,852,825 - $3,771,550 Investment Range
  • $1,384,944 Average Gross Revenue
  • 4% - 5% Royalty Fee
  • $45,000 Franchise Fee
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Brand Description

KFC (Kentucky Fried Chicken) stands as an iconic global leader in the quick-service restaurant industry, renowned for its secret blend of 11 herbs and spices that create their signature Original Recipe chicken. Since its founding in 1930 by Colonel Harland Sanders, KFC has revolutionized the fast-food landscape with its distinctive approach to fried chicken preparation and service.

The brand's menu centers around their world-famous pressure-cooked chicken, featuring both Original Recipe and Extra Crispy options, alongside innovative offerings like their Nashville Hot Chicken and Kentucky Fried Wings. Complementing their chicken selections are classic Southern-style sides including creamy mashed potatoes with gravy, cole slaw, and their beloved flaky buttermilk biscuits.

KFC franchises benefit from exceptional brand recognition, a proven business model, and comprehensive operational support. Their restaurants typically feature both dine-in and drive-thru service options, with many locations offering delivery services through popular platforms. The brand maintains high standards for food quality and customer service, with a focus on providing hot, fresh food and a welcoming dining experience.

As a franchise opportunity, KFC provides extensive training programs, marketing support, and access to their proprietary cooking methods and recipes. Their business model has demonstrated remarkable resilience through economic cycles, supported by continuous menu innovation and strong brand loyalty. For entrepreneurs seeking to enter the food service industry, KFC offers the chance to operate under one of the most recognized brands in restaurant history, with a product that has maintained its popularity for over 90 years.

DID YOU KNOW?

How much does it cost to start a franchise with KFC?

$1,852,825
$3,771,550
Bringing the Colonel's finger-lickin' good chicken to your community through a KFC franchise requires a total investment between $1,852,825 and $3,771,550, which covers everything from the $45,000 franchise fee to kitchen equipment, restaurant buildout, and working capital needed to serve up those famous 11 herbs and spices to hungry customers.
Financial Summary
Franchise Fee
$45,000
Investment Range
$1,852,825 - $3,771,550
Investment Midpoint
$2,812,188
Minimum Cash Required
$1,852,825
Royalty Fees
4% - 5%
Brand Fund
4.5%
Brand Bragging Rights
Global brand recognition and loyalty
94 years proven business model
3,761 units nationwide market presence
Established supply chain infrastructure
Above-average revenue performance metrics
Comprehensive training and support systems
Financial Analysis
KFC requires a substantial investment of $1.85M to $3.77M, positioning it as a premium-tier franchise opportunity that significantly exceeds the fried chicken sub-sector averages of $693K-$1.64M. This elevated investment reflects KFC's established infrastructure requirements, including specialized kitchen equipment, extensive buildout costs, and comprehensive brand standards. The investment typically encompasses real estate, construction, equipment, signage, and initial working capital, requiring substantial liquid capital and net worth qualifications.

The fried chicken segment benefits from consistent consumer demand and growing delivery/takeout trends, though faces increasing competition from fast-casual concepts. KFC's reported gross revenue of $1.38M exceeds sub-sector averages by 47%, indicating strong brand performance within the category. The quick-service restaurant industry continues expanding, driven by convenience-focused consumer behavior and digital ordering adoption.

With 3,761 units and 94 years of operation since 1930, KFC demonstrates exceptional system maturity and market penetration. This extensive footprint provides operational stability, proven business systems, and significant brand recognition. The franchisor's decades of experience translate into comprehensive training programs, established supply chains, and refined operational procedures.

Prospective investors should possess substantial financial resources, restaurant management experience, and capability to handle complex multi-shift operations. The brand's premium investment level limits market entry but provides territorial protection and established customer loyalty. Multi-unit development opportunities exist for qualified operators seeking portfolio expansion within the proven KFC system.
Expected Investment Range
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Average Gross Sales
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Financing
Financing Details

Franzy connects you with top-tier financing partners to help secure the funds to invest in a franchise like KFC. Whether you're looking for a loan or exploring other financial products, our partners provide expert guidance to ensure you obtain the necessary capital. They specialize in offering solutions tailored to the needs of franchisees, making the process of securing financing smooth and straightforward.

Why Financing with Franzy Partners?

Choosing to finance through Franzy's partners ensures you get the best terms and support for your franchise investment. Our partners have extensive experience in the franchising industry and offer specialized financial solutions tailored to your needs. With competitive interest rates and flexible repayment options, you can find the right financing plan that fits your budget and goals. Our partners are committed to providing personalized guidance throughout the financing process, making it easier for you to secure the necessary funds and confidently move forward with your franchise venture.

Finance Partners
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CRF USA

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First Bank of the Lake

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Golden Capital Solutions

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Location Analysis
KFC maintains a significant presence across multiple states, with widespread coverage showcasing strong regional concentrations in the Midwest and Eastern seaboard. The brand has established a notable presence in Michigan, with strong market penetration in states like New Jersey, Virginia, New York, and North Carolina. This distribution pattern suggests successful market penetration in high-population-density areas with strong quick-service restaurant demand.

The franchise's average rating of 3.78 across numerous customer reviews indicates consistent operational performance, though there's room for improvement in customer satisfaction. Regional success appears strongest in areas with high traffic, suburban family demographics, and proximity to major transportation corridors.

KFC's market positioning varies by region, with particularly strong performance in markets with diverse population demographics and established quick-service dining habits. The franchise shows potential for expansion in underserved markets, particularly in the Southwest and Western states where coverage is less dense. Ideal locations typically feature high visibility, strong daytime population, accessible parking, and proximity to retail clusters or commercial centers.

Prospective franchisees should focus on locations with median household incomes above $45,000, population densities exceeding 50,000 within a 3-mile radius, and strong drive-through accessibility. Markets with growing suburban populations and limited direct competition in the fried chicken segment present particularly attractive opportunities.
Total US Locations3761
Open Franchises3715
Corporate Locations46
Average Sq. FootN/A
Territory Map

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Franchise Net Unit Growth
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Additional Information

Executive Team

Get to know the leadership behind KFC. Learn about the experience and expertise of the executive team guiding KFC's success. For more details, refer to Item 2 of the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD).

Litigation

Review any legal actions or pending litigation involving KFC. Understanding the legal history helps assess potential risks and the brand's business practices. For more details, refer to Item 3 of the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD).

Bankruptcy

Review KFC's bankruptcy history and any filings by key personnel or affiliates. This critical information provides transparency about the brand's financial stability and management. For more details, refer to Item 4 of the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD).

Franchisor Assistance

Learn about KFC's comprehensive support system for franchisees, including initial training programs and continuous operational assistance. Understanding the available resources and support structure is crucial for franchise success. For more details, refer to Item 11 of the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD).

Frequently Asked Questions
Disclaimer

The information provided on this page is based on the latest Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) that is publicly available and that we have on record, which was issued in 2024. This information is for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute legal, financial, or business advice. We make no guarantees or claims regarding the completeness or accuracy. For the most current and detailed information, we recommend consulting the franchisor directly for the most recent FDD and regarding any questions that you may have about the information provided.

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