Before we begin this article, it’s important to mention that, at the time of writing, KFC’s UK website explicitly states the brand is not currently looking for new franchise partners. However, this is not to say the opportunity is gone forever.
It’s still a good idea to understand what it takes to become a KFC franchise owner, how much a KFC franchise costs, and what the process looks like.
Before we dive into these topics, let’s take a quick look at the history of KFC.
The History of KFC: Popularising Bucketloads of Chicken
KFC (commonly known as Kentucky Fried Chicken), was founded by Colonel Harland Sanders. He began selling fried chicken from his restaurant during the Great Depression. The first KFC franchise opened in 1952 in Salt Lake City, Utah.
In a time where hamburgers where the dominant preference for fast-food, KFC quickly popularised fried chicken and challenged this preference.
KFC made its debut in the UK in 1965 when the first restaurant opened in Preston, Lancashire. Since then, KFC has expanded its presence across the country, becoming a beloved fast-food brand known for its secret recipe of "11 herbs and spices" that makes its chicken so delicious. It currently has 1,106 locations in the UK.
KFC has grown into the second largest fast-food chain in the world (after McDonald’s), valued at an incredible $5.4 billion.
Now, let’s dive into important questions about becoming a KFC franchise owner.
How Much Does It Cost to Buy a KFC Franchise in the UK?
Although KFC UK is not currently accepting new franchise owners, buying a KFC franchise is not cheap. There are core investment requirements to become a KFC franchisee. These are:
- An upfront franchise fee of £38,000 - £42,000
- £2 million in liquid capital
- £5 million in assets
- Previous hospitality knowledge
The cost of purchasing a KFC franchise can vary depending on the location of the restaurant, the size of the building, and the specific market conditions. On average, you can expect to invest a total of £1 million to £2 million or more.
It's essential to conduct a thorough financial analysis and work closely with KFC's franchising team to understand the specific costs associated with your desired location.
How Much Can You Make From a KFC Franchise in the UK?
While the potential earnings of a KFC franchise can be substantial, they are subject to various factors such as location, management efficiency, and local market conditions. On average, a well-run KFC franchise in the UK can generate between £50,000 - £100,000 annual revenue. This amount could increase or decrease depending on the factors mentioned above.
Keep in mind that KFC provides training, marketing support, and a well-established brand, which can significantly enhance your chances of financial success. However, your dedication to quality, customer service, and local market knowledge will play a crucial role in determining your earnings.
How Do You Get Started Owning a KFC Franchise?
Once KFC UK starts accepting franchise owners again, you can contact the development team to find out more about the application process.
Before you apply to become a KFC franchise owner, you’ll need to ensure you have specific skills to buy a KFC franchise. These include:
- Proven experience in the food and drink industry
- Experience running a business
- An entrepreneurial drive
- Recruitment, training, and leadership skills
Other Fast-Food Franchise Opportunities You Can Consider
Buying a KFC franchise in the UK can be a lucrative venture for entrepreneurs with the right resources and dedication. The initial investment is hefty, but the earnings you can make from a KFC franchise can be significant.
As you know, KFC UK is not currently accepting new franchise owners. If you’d like to explore other options in the meantime, you can browse other food franchise opportunities on our site.
To support your franchise journey, we’ve created some useful franchise guides. These offer curated and reliable information on what to expect when you buy a franchise.
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