About KFC
Read about everything KFC is up to in the UK and Ireland, from the history of the Colonel, to our work with local charities and communities as well as our welfare commitment and our nutritional and allergens information.
CELEBRATING 60 YEARS OF KFC IN THE UK AND IRELAND
2025 marks 60 years since Colonel Harland Sanders opened the very first KFC in the UK and Ireland, located in Preston, Lancashire. It’s been quite the journey since 1965 - KFC has grown to have more than 1,000 restaurants in communities across the UK&I, employing over 33,500 people and enjoying bucket loads of our iconic chicken along the way.
The economic and social impact that KFC has had over the last six decades is, without doubt, significant. This growth has meant more jobs, more value generated, and more communities supported.
That’s why we have launched a report to highlight the contribution that KFC has had on the UK economy and our communities over the last 60 years, which we’re excited to share with you here.
Since 1965, we’re estimated to have contributed £11.6 billion, through our investment, our spending with UK suppliers and the impact of our team members’ wages.
60 has never tasted so good, and we’re still hungry for what comes next.
This is an exciting moment for KFC to continue to grow and do what we do best, even better. And we’re incredibly ambitious for KFC and how much more we can add to the UK. Here’s to the next 60!