Tag Archives: fast food

KFC Relocates U.S. Headquarters to Texas

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Kentucky Fried Chicken is moving its U.S. headquarters from Louisville, Kentucky, to Plano, Texas, in a significant shift for the fast-food chain long linked to its Southern roots. The relocation affects about 100 corporate employees, who will join Yum! Brands’ existing KFC and Pizza Hut teams in Plano over the next six months. An additional 90 remote workers will be asked to transition within the next 18 months.

This decision is part of a broader strategy by Yum! Brands, which also owns Taco Bell, Pizza Hut, and Habit Burger & Grill. The company is implementing a dual-headquarters approach: Plano will serve as the central hub for KFC and Pizza Hut, while Irvine, California, will house Taco Bell and Habit Burger operations. Leadership says the goal is to foster in-person collaboration, improve company culture, and tap into talent pools in key markets.

The relocation aligns with a broader trend of companies consolidating operations in Texas to optimize logistics, reduce costs and take advantage of favorable tax structures, and adapt to evolving workforce expectations.

Despite the relocation, Yum! Brands will retain a corporate presence in Louisville. Plans include a new flagship KFC restaurant and a $1 million endowment to the University of Louisville’s College of Business. While the move reflects a shift in operational strategy, the company’s continued investment in the region suggests the brand’s ongoing commitment to its Kentucky origins.

McDonald’s Opens Automated Test Restaurant

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In today’s exciting world of advanced technology, we are constantly being introduced to new concepts and developments. As innovative thought is far-reaching into all fields, it is no surprise that the food industry is also coming out with progressive ideas and designs.

McDonald’s, one of the world’s most profitable franchises, has set off on a new endeavor. The fast-food chain has opened its first flagship automated restaurant aimed at eating on the go. The goal is to minimize the amount of human presence, and to use robots or machinery where possible.

At the new Texas location near Fort Worth, customers can either pre-order on the app or make their selections at a kiosk inside. While there are some staff members in the kitchen to prepare the meals, there is no need to employ workers to man the register or hand out the orders. A robot distributes the orders at the pick-up counter or drive-thru window. The physical restaurant is significantly smaller than most McDonald’s chains, as it is designed primarily for takeout orders.

According to franchisee Keith Vanecek, “The technology in this restaurant not only allows us to serve our customers in new, innovative ways, it gives our restaurant team the ability to concentrate more on order speed and accuracy, which makes the experience more enjoyable for everyone.”

While some have applauded the potential improvements to the ordering process, others have expressed concern about the number of layoffs that the shift to automated systems will inevitably cause. Only time will tell if this new system is efficient, and how it impacts the amount of manpower needed.