KFC
The history of KFC (Kentucky Fried Chicken) is a classic tale of perseverance, innovation, and global success. Here’s a chronological overview:
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1930s: The Beginning
• 1930 – Harland Sanders opened a service station in Corbin, Kentucky, where he served meals to travelers in a small dining area. He didn’t have a formal restaurant at the time.
• 1936 – Sanders was given the honorary title of “Colonel” by Kentucky Governor Ruby Laffoon in recognition of his contributions to the state’s cuisine.
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1940s: The Secret Recipe
• 1940 – Sanders finalized his “Original Recipe” of 11 herbs and spices. The recipe is still a closely guarded secret today.
• 1947-1949 – Pressure cookers were used to fry chicken faster without sacrificing flavor, which was a significant innovation in food service at the time.
• 1949 – Sanders began franchising his fried chicken. The first KFC franchise was opened in Salt Lake City, Utah, by Pete Harman, a friend of Sanders.
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1950s–1960s: Expansion and Branding
• 1952 – The KFC brand officially started franchising.
• 1956–1964 – KFC expanded across the United States. By 1963, there were over 600 KFC outlets.
• 1964 – Sanders sold the company to a group of investors led by Jack Massey and John Y. Brown Jr. for $2 million, while staying on as the brand’s spokesperson.
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1970s–1980s: Global Growth
• 1971 – Heublein Inc. acquired KFC.
• 1970s–1980s – KFC expanded internationally, including markets like Japan, the UK, Mexico, and China.
• 1986 – KFC was acquired by PepsiCo, joining its other restaurant brands like Pizza Hut and Taco Bell.
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1990s–2000s: Rebranding and Modernization
• 1991 – The name officially changed from Kentucky Fried Chicken to KFC to de-emphasize the word “fried” and appeal to more health-conscious customers.
• 1997 – PepsiCo spun off its restaurant division into a separate company called Tricon Global Restaurants, which became Yum! Brands in 2002.
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2010s–Present: Innovation and Sustainability
• KFC introduced various new items and regional adaptations (like the Zinger burger and vegetarian options).
• In markets like China, KFC became one of the most popular Western fast-food brands.
• KFC has focused on sustainability, digital ordering, and delivery innovations.
• The brand continues to grow globally, with over 25,000 restaurants in more than 145 countries and territories as of the mid-2020s.
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Legacy
• Colonel Sanders remains a central figure in KFC’s branding.
• KFC is one of the most recognizable and successful fast-food chains worldwide, known especially for its fried chicken and “Original Recipe.”