Latest news with #KFC
Yahoo
2 hours ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Yum China unveils AI tool in a bid to boost efficiency
(Reuters) -Yum China Holdings said on Friday it has launched a new AI-enabled hands-free assistant tool at certain KFC stores in a bid to boost efficiency. The company, which operates Yum Brands' franchises including Taco Bell and Pizza Hut, said the tool, named Q-Smart, is aimed at supporting restaurant managers in tasks such as staff scheduling, inventory management, and food quality inspection. The launch follows its former parent Yum's AI-driven initiatives, including the Byte by Yum! software it launched in February, aimed at reducing wait times at restaurants and improving delivery times. Yum China said the pilot phase will lead to a larger scale roll-out of Q-Smart in the future, following incorporation of user feedback. Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Time of India
2 hours ago
- Business
- Time of India
Yum China unveils AI tool in a bid to boost efficiency
Yum China Holdings said on Friday it has launched a new AI-enabled hands-free assistant tool at certain KFC stores in a bid to boost efficiency. The company, which operates Yum Brands ' franchises including Taco Bell and Pizza Hut, said the tool, named Q-Smart , is aimed at supporting restaurant managers in tasks such as staff scheduling, inventory management, and food quality inspection. The launch follows its former parent Yum's AI-driven initiatives, including the Byte by Yum! software it launched in February, aimed at reducing wait times at restaurants and improving delivery times. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Enlarged Prostate Has Nothing to Do with Age. Just Stop Doing This One Common Thing! Health Benefits Undo Yum China said the pilot phase will lead to a larger scale roll-out of Q-Smart in the future, following incorporation of user feedback. Discover the stories of your interest Blockchain 5 Stories Cyber-safety 7 Stories Fintech 9 Stories E-comm 9 Stories ML 8 Stories Edtech 6 Stories
Arabian Business
2 hours ago
- Business
- Arabian Business
Americana in talks to acquire Five Guys in the region: reports
Americana Restaurants International, the largest out-of-home dining and quick service restaurant operator in the Middle East and North Africa and Kazakhstan with a portfolio that includes brands like KFC, Pizza Hut, Hardee's, Krispy Kreme, Wimpy and Costa Coffee, is reportedly considering adding Five Guys, Cinnabon and Seattle's Best Coffee to that list. Bloomberg has reported, with information from people familiar with the matter, that Americana is in talks to acquire Cravia Inc. from Fajr Capital, the private equity company that has owned Cravia since 2016. Talks are at an early stage, and there is no certainty a deal will be reached, the sources told Bloomberg, which could not get a response from Americana, while Fajr declined to comment. Americana eyes Five Guys acquisition Americana declared a revenue growth of 16.2 per cent for the first quarter of 2025, compared to the same period last year, with like-for-like sales improvements and the expansion of the store network. It reported an EBITDA of $121.7m, an increase of 17.4 per cent and net profit attributable to shareholders was $32.6m, a 16.5 per cent YoY increase. The company generated $33.5 million in Free Cash Flow during the quarter, while maintaining a strong balance sheet with no leverage and healthy cash reserves. Cravia has 78 outlets and more than 2,000 employees. In addition to Five Guys and Cinnabon, it operates or manages brands like Zaatar W Zeit, Seattle's Best Coffee and Carvel.
Reuters
3 hours ago
- Business
- Reuters
Yum China unveils AI tool in a bid to boost efficiency
June 20 (Reuters) - Yum China Holdings ( opens new tab, said on Friday it has launched a new AI-enabled hands-free assistant tool at certain KFC stores in a bid to boost efficiency. The company, which operates Yum Brands' (YUM.N), opens new tab franchises including Taco Bell and Pizza Hut, said the tool, named Q-Smart, is aimed at supporting restaurant managers in tasks such as staff scheduling, inventory management, and food quality inspection. The launch follows its former parent Yum's AI-driven initiatives, including the Byte by Yum! software it launched in February, aimed at reducing wait times at restaurants and improving delivery times. Yum China said the pilot phase will lead to a larger scale roll-out of Q-Smart in the future, following incorporation of user feedback.
Entrepreneur
3 hours ago
- Business
- Entrepreneur
The Top 10 Chicken Franchises of 2025
From global leaders like Popeyes to explosive newcomers like Dave's Hot Chicken, these franchises are winning on flavor, growth and brand support. The chicken franchise scene is sizzling — iconic legacy brands like Popeyes, KFC, and Wingstop continue dominating with proven systems and widespread recognition, while fast‑casual newcomers are carving out their niche with bold flavors and modern concepts. Combined, these top contenders offer entrepreneurs a powerful mix of brand strength, operational support, and high consumer demand, making chicken-centric franchising one of the hottest growth sectors in food service today. The brands on this list earned their spot on Entrepreneur's 2025 Franchise 500, our annual ranking of the strongest franchise systems, based on factors like unit growth, brand stability and financial performance. Whether you're looking for a globally recognized name or a rising concept with momentum, these chicken franchises represent some of the best opportunities in the industry right now. Related: Considering franchise ownership? Get started now to find your personalized list of franchises that match your lifestyle, interests and budget. 1. Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen Founded: 1972 1972 Franchising since: 1976 1976 Overall rank: 4 4 Number of units: 4,796 4,796 Change in units: +34.2% over 3 years +34.2% over 3 years Initial investment: $471,000 - $3,875,700 $471,000 - $3,875,700 Leadership: Jeff Klein, President Jeff Klein, President Parent company: Restaurant Brands Int'l. Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen, ranked #4 in Entrepreneur's 2025 Franchise 500, boasts nearly 4,800 units in the U.S. and 35+ countries — up 34% in three years — backed by strong brand support, entrepreneurial guidance, and robust training programs. In a savvy growth move, Popeyes has expanded into airports and college campuses to build brand affinity in high‑traffic areas, complementing its viral chicken sandwich and new wings lineup Related: What Popeyes' Viral Menu Strategy Can Teach You About Staying Relevant 2. Wingstop Founded: 1994 1994 Franchising since: 1998 1998 Overall rank: 11 11 Number of units: 2,352 2,352 Change in units: +44.8% over 3 years +44.8% over 3 years Initial investment: $259,400 - $912,100 $259,400 - $912,100 Leadership: Michael Skipworth, President & CEO Michael Skipworth, President & CEO Parent company: Wingstop Restaurants Inc. Wingstop has soared to more than 2,350 locations worldwide, fueled by its famous wings, streamlined operations and bold digital strategy. With a low-labor model and strong unit economics, the brand has grown nearly 45% in the past three years. Ranked #11 on Entrepreneur's 2025 Franchise 500, Wingstop supports franchisees with comprehensive training and expansive territory rights. It's a favorite among multi-unit operators thanks to its scalable setup and focus on flavor innovation. Related: This Innovative Move Keeps Wingstop Flying High 3. KFC Founded: 1930 1930 Franchising since: 1952 1952 Overall rank: 21 21 Number of units: 30,680 30,680 Change in units: +19.5% over 3 years +19.5% over 3 years Initial investment: $1,852,825 - $3,771,550 $1,852,825 - $3,771,550 Leadership: Tarun Lal, President Tarun Lal, President Parent company: Yum! Brands Inc. KFC remains one of the most iconic names in fast food, with a massive global presence and a menu built around its signature original recipe. Backed by decades of brand recognition, franchisees gain access to robust training, proprietary systems and ongoing field support. While the investment is significant, the brand offers unmatched scale and staying power. For entrepreneurs seeking a legacy name with global reach, KFC, #21 on the 2025 Francise 500, continues to be a top contender. Related: KFC Is Moving Its Corporate Headquarters Out of Kentucky. Here's What We Know. 4. Slim Chickens Founded: 2003 2003 Franchising since: 2011 2011 Overall rank: 81 81 Number of units: 251 251 Change in units: +109.2% over 3 years +109.2% over 3 years Initial investment: $1,522,900 - $4,439,000 $1,522,900 - $4,439,000 Leadership: Sam Rothschild, COO & Partner Sam Rothschild, COO & Partner Parent company: Slim Chickens Slim Chickens brings Southern comfort food to the fast-casual space, serving fresh, hand-breaded tenders, wings, and chicken & waffles alongside signature dipping sauces and indulgent jar desserts. Since launching its franchise program in 2011, the brand has grown to over 250 locations with strong momentum in both the U.S. and international markets. Backed by robust training, marketing support and a hospitality-driven culture, Slim Chickens appeals to franchisees looking for a modern, scalable concept with loyal fans — known affectionately as "Slimthusiasts." Related: She Was a Lawyer with No Restaurant Experience. Now, She's Reviving an Iconic Restaurant Chain. 5. Golden Chick Founded: 1967 1967 Franchising since: 1972 1972 Overall rank: 92 92 Number of units: 231 231 Change in units: +12.7% over 3 years +12.7% over 3 years Initial investment: $810,250 - $1,852,800 $810,250 - $1,852,800 Leadership: Mark Parmerlee, CEO Mark Parmerlee, CEO Parent company: Golden Franchising Corp. Golden Chick is a seasoned Southern-style chicken franchise with roots dating back to 1967. Known for its signature hand-breaded Golden Tenders, the brand has built a loyal following across the South and Midwest. With more than 230 locations and counting, Golden Chick offers franchisees strong operational support, comprehensive training and marketing guidance. It's a solid option for both first-time owners and experienced operators looking for a dependable, scalable business with regional charm. Related: I Walked Away From a Corporate Career to Start My Own Small Business — Here's Why You Should Do the Same 6. Zaxby's Founded: 1990 1990 Franchising since: 1994 1994 Overall rank: 109 109 Number of units: 960 960 Change in units: +5.7% over 3 years +5.7% over 3 years Initial investment: $1,406,700 - $3,323,200 $1,406,700 - $3,323,200 Leadership: Mike Mettler, CDO Mike Mettler, CDO Parent company: Zaxby's SPE Franchisor LLC Zaxby's stands out in the fast-casual chicken space with its crave-worthy chicken fingers, wings, hearty sandwiches, and signature "Zalads," all paired with bold dipping sauces. With nearly 1,000 locations — predominantly in the Southern U.S. — Zaxby's ranked #109 in Entrepreneur's 2025 Franchise 500 and continues to climb. Franchisees receive strong support, from site selection and training to marketing and proprietary tech. Known for its hospitality and community focus, it's a solid choice for operators eyeing fresh fast-casual growth. Related: This One Leadership Move Will Transform Your Team's Loyalty and Performance 7. Bojangles Founded: 1977 1977 Franchising since: 1978 1978 Overall rank: 145 145 Number of units: 813 813 Change in units: +4.9% over 3 years +4.9% over 3 years Initial investment: $720,220 - $3,779,700 $720,220 - $3,779,700 Leadership: Jose Armario, CEO Jose Armario, CEO Parent company: The Jordan Company & Durational Capital Management LP Bojangles specializes in Cajun-seasoned fried chicken and buttermilk biscuits, building a loyal following since its 1977 debut in Charlotte. The brand ranks #145 on Entrepreneur's 2025 Franchise 500 and has expanded to more than 800 locations with steady multi-year growth. Franchisees benefit from comprehensive support—including site selection, in-depth training, marketing assistance, and proprietary tools — along with strong community branding rooted in Southern hospitality, making it a standout opportunity in the fast-food chicken category. Related: Her Postpartum-Inspired Side Hustle Hit $30,000 Revenue in 2 Months — Now It's Making About $500,000 a Year: 'I Truly Love Everything About It' 8. Chester's Founded: 1952 1952 Franchising since: 2004 2004 Overall rank: 237 237 Number of units: 1,062 1,062 Change in units: -16% over 3 years -16% over 3 years Initial investment: $27,500 - $296,500 $27,500 - $296,500 Leadership: Wynn Giles, Managing Director Wynn Giles, Managing Director Parent company: N/A Chester's brings fresh, never-frozen, double-breaded fried chicken to convenience stores, supermarkets, and travel stops across the U.S., using a secret family recipe that's built a loyal following. With over 1,000 locations, the brand has become a staple in high-traffic, nontraditional venues. Ranked #237 on Entrepreneur's 2025 Franchise 500, Chester's offers streamlined startup costs, strong training, marketing support and a recognizable "Fried With Love" identity — ideal for operators seeking a simple, scalable chicken concept. Related: Selling as a Founder Is Brutal — It Was Also the Reason We Reached $400M in Revenue 9. Church's Texas Chicken Founded: 1952 1952 Franchising since: 1969 1969 Overall rank: 402 402 Number of units: 1,532 1,532 Change in units: +5.4% over 3 years +5.4% over 3 years Initial investment: $648,866 - $1,896,300 $648,866 - $1,896,300 Leadership: Roland Gonzalez, CEO Roland Gonzalez, CEO Parent company: Cajun Global LLC Church's Texas Chicken brings bold, bone‑in fried chicken, honey‑butter biscuits, and flavorful sides to high‑traffic locations like malls, convenience stops, and drive‑ins. Launched in 1952 in San Antonio, it has grown steadily to over 1,500 units across more than 20 countries. Ranked #402 on Entrepreneur's 2025 Franchise 500, the brand combines legacy appeal with modern growth support — real‑estate expertise, thorough training, marketing tools and supply-chain backing — offering entrepreneurs a resilient, hospitality-driven investment in comfort‑food franchising. Related: Why Hustle Culture Is the Most Dangerous Lie Founders Still Believe 10. Dave's Hot Chicken Founded: 2018 2018 Franchising since: 2019 2019 Overall rank: 453 453 Number of units: 211 211 Change in units: +1,072.2% over 3 years +1,072.2% over 3 years Initial investment: $619,800 - $1,963,000 $619,800 - $1,963,000 Leadership: Bill Phelps, CEO Bill Phelps, CEO Parent company: Roark Capital Dave's Hot Chicken has ignited a foodie frenzy with its Nashville‑style hot chicken tenders and sliders, offered in seven spice levels and paired with simple sides like mac-and-cheese. Since franchising began in 2019, it's surged to over 200 U.S. locations and climbed into Entrepreneur's 2025 Franchise 500, ranking #453 — up nearly 30 spots — thanks to explosive unit growth and viral appeal. Backed by celebrity investors and now owned by Roark Capital, Dave's brings bold flavor and strong franchise support to hot-casual chicken enthusiasts. Related: A Hot Chicken Chain Founded in 2017 Was Just Acquired for $1 Billion: 'One of the Great Entrepreneurial Journeys of our Time'
