In a significant corporate shakeup, KFC, the iconic fast-food chain known for its fried chicken, is moving its headquarters from Kentucky to Texas, as announced by its parent company Yum Brands. The office will transition from Louisville to Plano, although some operations, including the KFC Foundation, will remain in Kentucky.
This decision has sparked disappointment from Kentucky governor Andy Beshear, who expressed his belief that the company's founder, Colonel Harland Sanders, would also be disheartened by the move. "This company's name starts with Kentucky, and it has marketed our state's heritage and culture in the sale of its product," he said, highlighting the emotional ties the brand has with its origins.
The shift to Texas aligns with a trend observed since the pandemic, where numerous companies have chosen to relocate in search of lower taxes and more business-friendly policies. Yum Brands' reorganization will see KFC and Pizza Hut headquartered in Plano, while Taco Bell and Habit Burger & Grill will maintain their base in Irvine, California.
Yum Brands CEO David Gibbs stated that the changes are geared towards ensuring sustainable growth, emphasizing the need to better serve customers, employees, franchisees, and shareholders. This strategic adjustment comes at a time when cities like Austin and others in Texas have become attractive relocation destinations due to their favorable business climates, as noted in a report by real estate services firm CBRE.
KFC's rich history in Kentucky dates back to the 1930s when Colonel Sanders began selling his famed fried chicken from a service station in Corbin. Today, his likeness is recognized globally, gracing over 24,000 KFC restaurants in more than 145 countries and territories.
