Kentucky Fried Chicken is moving its U.S. corporate headquarters out of its home state in a major shake-up announced Tuesday by its parent company, Yum Brands.
The iconic fast-food chain, founded by Colonel Harland Sanders with his secret blend of 11 herbs and spices, will relocate its corporate offices to Plano, Texas. Approximately 100 KFC corporate employees will make the move within the next six months, according to Yum Brands, which also owns Taco Bell and Pizza Hut.
The decision to move KFC’s corporate office from Louisville drew swift reactions from Kentucky political leaders. Governor Andy Beshear urged Yum to reconsider, while Louisville Mayor Craig Greenberg expressed disappointment, emphasizing that KFC “was born here and is synonymous with Kentucky.”
Despite the relocation, Yum assured that it will maintain corporate offices and the KFC Foundation in Louisville.
Yum’s restructuring plan designates two primary brand headquarters in the U.S., with KFC and Pizza Hut based in Plano, while Taco Bell and Habit Burger & Grill remain in Irvine, California.
Additionally, 90 remote employees will be asked to relocate to their designated brand headquarters. The company stated that the move is intended to foster collaboration among its brands and enhance long-term growth.
“These changes position us for sustainable growth and will help us better serve our customers, employees, franchisees, and shareholders,” Yum CEO David Gibbs said. To soften the impact of the move, Yum is offering relocation and transition support for affected employees.
As part of its continued ties to Kentucky, Yum announced a $1 million endowment to the University of Louisville’s College of Business for Yum-sponsored scholarships. The company also revealed plans to open a flagship KFC restaurant in Louisville.
KFC’s roots in Kentucky date back to 1930, when Colonel Sanders began serving fried chicken at a service station in Corbin. Over the next decade, he perfected his recipe and cooking techniques, eventually growing KFC into a global brand.
Today, KFC operates over 24,000 restaurants in more than 145 countries and territories. While its headquarters may be relocating, the brand’s deep connection to Kentucky remains a key part of its identity.
