KFC bets big on South Africa with 100 new restaurant openings

KFC, the world’s second-largest restaurant chain is planning a major expansion in South Africa, adding 100 new restaurants over the next year as it doubles down on its largest market on the continent.

The move is expected to strengthen the chain’s lead in the country’s highly competitive fast-food industry. 

The fried chicken brand already operates more than 1,200 outlets in South Africa, making the country its fifth-largest market globally.

For decades, KFC has remained one of the most recognizable restaurant brands across South African cities, suburbs and townships. 

KFC first entered South Africa in 1971, introducing its signature fried chicken recipe to local consumers at a time when American fast-food brands were still relatively new to the market.

The business expanded quickly before political developments forced a temporary change in ownership. 

In 1987, U.S. sanctions linked to apartheid laws required American companies to sell their South African assets.

KFC’s operations and trademarks were transferred to a local holding company known as Devco as Washington increased pressure on the apartheid government. 

When democracy arrived in 1994, KFC returned to reclaim its South African business, which had grown to about 300 outlets during that period.

Since then, the chain has steadily expanded its footprint across the country.

Expansion targets jobs and local investment 

KFC said the latest rollout, known as the “Next 100 SA” initiative, will bring hundreds of millions of rand in infrastructure investment while creating thousands of jobs across the country. 

The company said each new restaurant typically creates about 35 direct jobs and supports roughly 100 additional roles across its supply chain, including logistics, agriculture and construction. 

The expansion drive will focus on a mix of urban centers and underserved communities, reflecting growing demand for affordable fast-food options in South Africa’s consumer market.

Public invited to identify new locations 

As part of the campaign, KFC is asking property developers, municipalities and members of the public to help identify suitable sites for future restaurants. 

The company said it is offering a R60,000 finder’s fee for successful site recommendations, building on a similar campaign last year that generated about 1,700 submissions. 

“We opened 100 new restaurants across Africa in 2025, and our appetite for growth in South Africa has never been stronger,” KFC Africa General Manager Akhona Qengqe said. 

He said the expansion reflects sustained consumer demand and confidence in South Africa’s long-term prospects despite broader economic pressures facing the country.