Splendid Hospitality Group invests £1.6m into KFC division

Splendid Hospitality Group (SHG) has invested £1.6m in two new KFC restaurants in the northeast of England.

The openings bring SHG’s KFC portfolio to 40 restaurants and reflect the business’ confidence in the booming chicken market, which is expected to grow to £6b by 2035, according to recent data from KFC.

The 4,045 sq ft KFC Silverlink marks SHG’s first KFC in North Tyneside and serves 100 guests, while  KFC Boldon in Tyne and Wear spans 3,524 sq ft and includes a drive-through, six EV charging stations and seating for 82 diners.

The new KFCs have created 100 local jobs and donate surplus food to community kitchens through its partnership with the Felix Project.

Dave Price, managing director, Splendid Restaurants, said: “We’re proud to continue growing alongside KFC, a brand SHG has partnered with successfully for many years. These new restaurants demonstrate our shared confidence in the UK market and our ambition to keep investing in great locations, outstanding teams and a fantastic customer experience.

“Consumer demand for chicken remains strong and, as the market leader, KFC is perfectly placed to capitalise on this. That strength, combined with our longstanding partnership with KFC, gives us real confidence as we continue expanding our portfolio, creating jobs and investing in the communities we serve.”

Dan Marshall, head of franchise operations at KFC UK&I, added: “Splendid Restaurants has been part of KFC for many years, so it’s brilliant to see them reach 40 restaurants across the UK and Ireland. Growth is a team sport, and our franchisees have always been a huge part of KFC’s story. Milestones like this show the passion and commitment they bring to the brand, and we’re excited to see what’s next for SHG as we continue to grow together in the years ahead.”

Shiraz and Nadeem Boghani’s SHG consists of a portfolio of 24 hotels with more than 2,500 bedrooms, as well as in excess of 40 quick service restaurants (KFC and Chaiiwala) and four care homes (Splendid Care).

KFC was created by Colonel Harland Sanders in 1952 and the UK welcomed its first KFC in Preston in 1965.