LOUISVILLE, Ky. — In a major organizational shift, Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC) is moving its U.S. corporate headquarters from its founding state of Kentucky to Plano, Texas. The announcement made by Yum Brands, the parent company overseeing KFC along with Taco Bell and Pizza Hut, reveals that approximately 100 employees will be transitioned to the new location over the next six months.
This news has prompted swift reactions from Kentucky’s political figures. Governor Andy Beshear expressed his disappointment, stating, “I believe the company’s founder would be too,” citing KFC’s strong association with Kentucky’s heritage. He emphasized that KFC’s identity is firmly rooted in the state, and he hopes Yum Brands reconsiders the decision to relocate.
Louisville’s Mayor Craig Greenberg echoed these sentiments, sharing his discontent over the corporate shake-up that takes KFC’s primary operations out of its birthplace. He asserted that the brand is a significant part of Kentucky’s identity and history.
Yum Brands indicated that this relocation forms part of a strategic initiative to establish dual brand headquarters in the United States, with KFC and Pizza Hut set to function from Plano, while Taco Bell and Habit Burger & Grill will continue to be based in Irvine, California. Furthermore, the company announced plans for 90 employees who have been working remotely to eventually relocate in alignment with their respective campuses.
Despite this significant move, Yum confirmed that it would maintain a corporate presence in Louisville through its ongoing offices and the KFC Foundation. While Governor Beshear and Mayor Greenberg noted the retention of local jobs is a positive aspect, both leaders voiced concerns over the impact of KFC’s headquarters relocation.
Greenberg expressed gratitude, stating he intends to work closely with Yum’s leaders to enhance the company’s presence in Louisville, especially as the company confirmed that employees affected by the relocation will receive transition and relocation assistance.
According to Yum CEO David Gibbs, the decision to establish dual headquarters is aimed at enhancing collaboration among the various brands, stating, “These changes position us for sustainable growth and will help us better serve our customers, employees, franchisees, and shareholders.”
In a significant contribution, Yum also announced a $1 million endowment to support Yum-sponsored scholarships at the University of Louisville’s College of Business, as part of its commitment to maintaining ties in the state. Additionally, there are plans for KFC to enhance its brand presence in Louisville by developing a flagship restaurant that would exemplify its legacy in Kentucky.
KFC’s connection to Kentucky is almost a century old, dating back to 1930 when Colonel Harland Sanders began cooking for travelers at a gas station in Corbin. He dedicated the next nine years to perfecting his unique blend of 11 herbs and spices and refining cooking methods that have since become synonymous with the brand. Today, KFC has a sprawling presence with over 24,000 restaurants in more than 145 countries worldwide, which has made Sanders’ signature image iconic across the globe.
