KFC's Recipe for Success

Kentucky Fried Chicken^®, better known as KFC^®, is a staple in the fast-food industry. With its iconic fried chicken and innovative business strategies, KFC has left an indelible mark on the culinary world. Here are 10 key facts about the history and future of KFC.

1. Humble Beginnings

KFC was founded by Colonel Harland Sanders in Corbin, Kentucky. Before finding success with fried chicken in his 60s, Sanders had a diverse career, working as a farmhand, streetcar conductor, railroad worker, lawyer, ferry operator, and insurance and tire salesman. He even delivered babies, as many husbands couldn't afford doctors for their pregnant wives.

2. The Birth of the 'Original Recipe'

Sanders began his culinary journey in the back of his gas station, cooking for travelers and locals using his mother's recipes. His cooking quickly gained a reputation, leading him to open the Harland Sanders Court and Café. By the early 1940s, Sanders had perfected his "Original Recipe" of 11 herbs and spices, a formula that remains a closely guarded secret to this day. This recipe was crucial in setting KFC apart from its competitors.

3. Innovating With Pressure Cooking

Sanders was a pioneer in using pressure cooking to fry chicken. This method significantly reduced cooking time while maintaining the quality and flavor of the chicken, a key innovation that contributed to KFC's success.

4. Honorary Colonel

In 1906, Sanders lied about his age to join the U.S. Army, serving briefly in Cuba before an honorable discharge. He was named an honorary colonel by Kentucky's governor in 1935 and again in 1949, after which he adopted his iconic look of a white suit and bleached facial hair.

5. Franchising Across America

After facing business challenges post-World War II, Sanders began franchising his chicken recipe in the early 1950s. His first franchisee, Peter Harman, helped popularize KFC in Salt Lake City, Utah. By 1963, Sanders' recipe was franchised to over 600 outlets in the U.S. and Canada.

6. Incorporation and Expansion

Colonel Sanders incorporated Kentucky Fried Chicken in 1955. He tirelessly promoted his brand, traveling extensively to sign up new franchisees. In 1964, Sanders sold the business to a group of investors, which led to further expansion and global recognition.

7. Technological Advancements

Since January of last year, KFC Canada has enabled customers to purchase "The Bitcoin Bucket" through its website. They also use facial recognition technology in China for personalized customer service. In addition, they have partnered with Beyond Meat to implement menu options made with plant based "chicken."

8. Rebranding

In 1991, Kentucky Fried Chicken rebranded as KFC to create a more modern and health-conscious image. The simplified name was intended to appeal to a broader audience and distance the brand from the negative connotations of "fried" food.

9. Marketing Mastery

KFC is known for its creative marketing campaigns. In 2017, the company announced the launch of a chicken sandwich into space, capturing global attention. Such innovative campaigns have helped maintain KFC's relevance and appeal.

10. Global Presence

Today, KFC is owned by Yum! Brands^® and operates thousands of restaurants worldwide. The brand continues to innovate and adapt to changing consumer preferences, ensuring its legacy as a beloved fast-food giant.

From a small gas station kitchen to a global fast-food empire, KFC's journey is a testament to the power of innovation, resilience, and strategic marketing. As KFC continues to evolve and embrace new technologies, its iconic fried chicken and pioneering spirit will undoubtedly endure for generations to come.

References: 8 Things You May Not Know About the Real Colonel Sanders | The History of KFC: Their Past and the Tech Building Their Future