Popular American-style chicken brand KFC has announced a significant new growth agreement with franchise partner FPG Foods (FPG), marking another major step in the fast-food giant’s expansion strategy across the UK and Ireland.
KFC Franchise Expansion is a key strategy that aims to increase market presence.
Under the new agreement, 17 KFC restaurants located across London and the South of England will transfer to FPG Foods, effectively doubling the company’s UK footprint and strengthening its position within the rapidly growing quick-service restaurant sector.
The deal forms part of KFC’s wider long-term investment strategy for the UK and Irish markets, where consumer demand for fried chicken brands continues to rise. FPG Foods has now outlined ambitious plans to grow its estate to 50 KFC restaurants by the end of 2030, signalling strong confidence in both the KFC brand and the wider UK chicken restaurant market.
The KFC Franchise Expansion plan includes opening new locations to meet consumer demand.
KFC Franchise Expansion: A Strategic Growth Initiative
Understanding KFC Franchise Expansion is vital for potential investors looking to join the brand.
Rashied Parker, CEO of FPG Foods, said the company’s experience in the UK over the last two years had reinforced its belief in the long-term growth potential of the business.
“The response we’ve seen since opening in the UK two years ago has given us even greater confidence in the KFC brand and the opportunity ahead,” Parker explained.
“From its strong leadership team to its focus on innovation and customer service, KFC UK & Ireland has all the ingredients for sustained growth and that is why we have set this ambitious plan to increase our estate to 50 restaurants by 2030.”
Parker also praised the performance of the UK leadership team, highlighting the contribution of FPG Foods UK General Manager Tyrone Herdman-Grant in helping establish the business in Britain.
“The dedication of our team, led by FPG Foods UK General Manager Tyrone Herdman-Grant, has also played an important role in this journey,” he added.
“Through relentless focus on product quality, customer experience and team development, they have helped create a platform from which we can confidently pursue our long-term growth ambitions.”
KFC UK & Ireland says the agreement represents another important milestone in its strategy to strengthen its market leadership position through franchise growth and investment in modern restaurant operations.
This agreement underscores KFC Franchise Expansion efforts in enhancing brand visibility.
Rob Swain, General Manager at KFC UK & Ireland, said franchise partners remain central to the company’s expansion ambitions.
The role of franchise partners is crucial in the KFC Franchise Expansion initiative.
“This agreement marks another important step in KFC’s growth across the UK and Ireland,” Swain said.
“Our franchise partners are central to that ambition, helping us bring great tasting chicken, brilliant service and modern restaurants to more customers, in more communities.”
KFC Franchise Expansion plans are designed to bring innovative dining experiences.
Swain added that FPG Foods had already demonstrated strong operational performance within the KFC network and shared the brand’s long-term ambitions for expansion.
“FPG Foods has built a strong track record of operating high-performing restaurants,” he said.
“I’m delighted to be working with Rashied and his team, who share our ambition for growth and our commitment to delivering a great experience for customers every time they visit.”
“The UK and Ireland remain one of KFC’s most exciting markets. With strong franchise partners, talented restaurant teams and continued investment in the brand, we’re well placed to build on our leadership position and unlock the next chapter of growth together.”
The focus on KFC Franchise Expansion allows the brand to tap into new markets effectively.
The announcement follows KFC’s wider 2025 growth strategy, which outlined plans to generate a £1.5 billion economic impact across the UK and Ireland while opening hundreds of additional restaurants over the next decade.
As part of its growth vision, KFC Franchise Expansion will create numerous job opportunities.
The fast-food giant has continued to deliver strong trading performance, with latest earnings showing UK system sales increased by 9% during the first quarter. KFC also reported strong momentum heading into Q2, driven in part by the success of its Pickle Mania range, which the company described as the most successful limited-time menu launch in KFC UK history.
The latest agreement with FPG Foods further highlights the strength of the UK franchising sector, particularly within quick-service restaurants, where major international brands continue to invest heavily in expansion opportunities across the country.
As competition within the fried chicken market intensifies, KFC’s continued partnership-led growth strategy demonstrates how established franchise systems are leveraging experienced multi-unit operators to accelerate regional expansion and strengthen customer reach throughout the UK and Ireland.
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