Abdelrahman
KFC, which was formerly recognized as Kentucky Fried Chicken, is shifting its corporate headquarters from Louisville, Kentucky, to Plano, Texas, as announced by its owner, Yum Brands. While the primary office will relocate, KFC will continue to maintain certain operations in Kentucky, including the KFC Foundation.
Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear expressed his disappointment regarding this decision, stating that he believes the company’s founder would feel similarly. In recent years, Texas has become a desirable destination for numerous companies due to its favorable tax structures and pro-business atmosphere.
The strategic move by Yum Brands supports the establishment of dual headquarters for its flagship brands. KFC and Pizza Hut will operate from Plano, while Taco Bell and Habit Burger & Grill will continue to be based in Irvine, California. CEO David Gibbs emphasized that these changes are designed to ensure sustainable growth and enhance service to customers, employees, franchise owners, and shareholders.
Governor Beshear highlighted KFC’s deep-rooted connection to its home state, noting that the brand has historically promoted Kentucky’s heritage and culture through its marketing. KFC’s origins date back to the 1930s when Colonel Harland Sanders began selling his famous fried chicken at a service station in Corbin, Kentucky. Today, Sanders’ iconic image can be found on the signage of over 24,000 KFC outlets worldwide.
In the wake of the pandemic, numerous US companies have also opted to relocate their headquarters. A report by real estate firm CBRE indicated that cities like Austin and other locations in Texas have thrived as corporate hubs thanks to the state’s supportive business climate.
