KFC permanently closed at least 312 U.S. restaurants between July 15, 2025, and July 6, 2026, a 7.64% reduction in its American footprint, according to Local Falcon. The closures come as the fried chicken chain's sales fell 4.6% in 2025, following a 5.2% decline in 2024, while rivals Chick-fil-A and Popeyes have built stronger brand identities. Yum Brands CEO Christopher Turner said KFC delivered 6% system sales growth in the second quarter, driven by 7% unit growth and 2% same-store sales growth, and the company is pursuing a turnaround that includes a new visual identity and improved tenders. Restaurant consultant Jeffrey Summers noted KFC has posted back-to-back positive same-store sales quarters after seven consecutive negative ones, but cautioned the improvement remains modest.
Yum! Brands IncKFC's Q2 system sales growth of 6% and positive same-store sales quarters indicate improving demand.
Restaurant Brands International IncChick-fil-A cited as a stronger rival, but no direct impact on its own performance.
