The results, released by Yum! Brands, also revealed same-store sales increased 10% during the second quarter and were up 9% year-to-date, with menu innovation continuing to fuel transaction growth.
The limited-edition Pickle Mania range proved a standout success, with customers buying 4.2 million gherkin slices during the quarter – enough, if stacked vertically, to reach the top of London’s Gherkin an estimated 593 times.
KFC also continued to invest in growth across the UK and Ireland, expanding its Kwench by KFC speciality drinks range to 500 restaurants and opening seven new locations during the first half of the year, including a new restaurant in Dublin.
The strong regional performance came as KFC reported continued momentum globally. System sales increased 6% in the second quarter, while same-store sales rose 2%. The business opened 660 gross new restaurants across 55 countries during the period, contributing to 7% unit growth.
GAAP operating profit increased 13% year-on-year, while core operating profit rose 9%.
The results follow the launch in June of KFC’s new global brand strategy, which includes a refreshed brand identity and a menu focused on boneless chicken, beverages and new sauces designed to give customers more opportunities to personalise their meals. KFC said it aspires to have the core elements of the strategy to be live across its top 20 markets by the end of 2027.
“We’re continuing to see strong momentum for KFC across the UK and Ireland as we raise the bar on menu innovation, giving customers more reasons to choose us,” says Rob Swain, KFC UK & Ireland general manager.
“Creating bold new products inspired by the latest trends has created real excitement for our customers, which is translating into sales.
“Pickle mania swept the country earlier this year, with our new Pickle Mania Menu becoming one of our biggest-ever limited-time launches.
“I’d like to thank our restaurant teams and franchise partners, whose passion and commitment continue to make this growth possible.
“Their hard work is what keeps customers coming back, and we’re excited to keep building on this momentum together.”