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.