KFC is relocating its headquarters from Louisville, Kentucky, to Plano, Texas, as part of a broader reorganization by its parent company, Yum Brands. While some operations, including the KFC Foundation, will remain in Kentucky, the move marks a significant shift for the brand. Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear expressed disappointment, noting that the company’s founder, Colonel Harland Sanders, would likely have felt the same.
Yum Brands’ decision is in line with a trend of companies relocating to Texas, attracted by its favorable tax policies and business climate. The company’s strategy involves maintaining dual headquarters for its main brands: KFC and Pizza Hut in Plano, while Taco Bell and Habit Burger & Grill stay in Irvine, California. Yum’s CEO, David Gibbs, stated that these changes are intended to promote sustainable growth and improve service to customers, employees, and other stakeholders.
KFC’s roots in Kentucky date back to the 1930s, when Colonel Sanders first started selling fried chicken in Corbin. Despite the move, KFC’s ties to the state remain strong, with Sanders’ legacy continuing to be a central element of the brand. This relocation follows a broader trend of businesses shifting their headquarters to Texas, with cities like Austin attracting companies due to the state’s business-friendly policies.
