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  • BHC Chicken: Korean Fried Chicken Giant Sets Sights on Vietnam for Southeast Asian Growth

    BHC Chicken: Korean Fried Chicken Giant Sets Sights on Vietnam for Southeast Asian Growth

    BHC Chicken, a renowned fried chicken brand originating from South Korea, is setting its sights on broadening its reach within Southeast Asia, with plans to launch in Vietnam. This move is part of an ongoing expansion strategy that is rapidly growing the brand’s presence across the region.

    The brand’s parent entity, Dining Brands Group, recently formalized its plans to venture into Vietnam, sealing a master franchise agreement with Singaporean company Hao Open Foods. This strategic partnership is set to facilitate the brand’s launch and consequent operations in Vietnam.

    In terms of expansion, the company has set its sights on major cities within Vietnam, such as Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, and Da Nang. The brand’s ambitious growth plan anticipates the establishment of 50 locations within these cities over the course of the next decade.

    Founded in 2004, BHC Chicken holds a position of prominence among South Korea’s top fried chicken chains. With a robust network of over 2,000 stores, its reach extends beyond the domestic market. The brand has significantly leveraged franchise partnerships to successfully penetrate international markets, with a presence in countries like Singapore, Malaysia, and Thailand.

    In addition to its planned expansion into Vietnam, BHC Chicken is also preparing to make its debut in the Philippines later this year, further solidifying its foothold in Southeast Asia.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the expansion plan of BHC Chicken in Vietnam?
    BHC Chicken plans to establish a presence in key Vietnamese cities, with an aim to open 50 locations over the next 10 years.

    Who is BHC Chicken’s franchise partner for its Vietnam launch?
    BHC Chicken is partnering with Singaporean company Hao Open Foods for its expansion into Vietnam.

    Is BHC Chicken planning expansions to other countries?
    Yes, apart from Vietnam, BHC Chicken is reportedly preparing to launch in the Philippines later this year.

  • Texas Chicken Set to Conquer Chinese Market with 600+ Stores: The Biggest International Expansion to Date

    Texas Chicken Set to Conquer Chinese Market with 600+ Stores: The Biggest International Expansion to Date

    Texas Chicken, a prominent quick-service restaurant chain, is set to expand its footprint to China. The company plans to inaugurate its first restaurant in the country later in the year, following a significant deal to open over 600 establishments nationwide.

    China: The 27th International Market

    The upcoming debut of Texas Chicken in China signifies its entry into its 27th international market. The first restaurant under this brand will be launched in Shanghai this summer, followed by additional outlets in various locations. The company aims to create a robust presence in the Chinese market by opening more than 600 restaurants throughout the country.

    Strategic Partnership with Deke Shengtang

    To facilitate its successful entry into the Chinese market, Texas Chicken has formed a strategic alliance with Deke Shengtang, a renowned local operator for several quick-service restaurant brands. The partnership entails a franchise agreement that will see the development of 600 or more restaurants across China in the coming years.

    According to Texas Chicken, this franchising agreement marks the company’s most significant international development deal to date, reflecting its long-term confidence in the Chinese market.

    Executives’ Insights

    Roland Gonzalez, the CEO of Texas Chicken, stated, “China is one of the most dynamic and influential consumer markets globally, and we are entering it with a brand primed for connection – boasting big flavour, real value, and a spirit that unifies people.”

    Tim Wadell, EVP of International Business at Texas Chicken, further stated, “The team at Deke Shengtang brings the local expertise and ambition we seek in a partner.”

    The company will release more details about the restaurant design, locations, and future openings in China as the launch date approaches.

    Company Background

    George W Church Sr established Church’s Texas Chicken in San Antonio, Texas, in 1952. Texas Chicken, the sister brand, oversees operations outside the US. The quick-service restaurant chain currently operates over 1400 locations worldwide.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the significance of Texas Chicken’s entry into China?
    Texas Chicken’s entry into China marks its expansion into its 27th international market, representing a significant milestone in the company’s global growth strategy.

    Who has Texas Chicken partnered with for its market entry into China?
    Texas Chicken has formed an alliance with Deke Shengtang, a leading local operator of multiple quick-service restaurant brands, to facilitate its market entry into China.

    What is the expected number of Texas Chicken restaurants in China?
    Following a franchise agreement with Deke Shengtang, Texas Chicken plans to develop 600 or more restaurants across China in the next few years.

  • Schnitz Breaks Into Chicken Tender Game: Launches New Mouthwatering Signature Tenders Range Nationwide

    Schnitz Breaks Into Chicken Tender Game: Launches New Mouthwatering Signature Tenders Range Nationwide

    Schnitz, the renowned food chain, continues to expand its product range by stepping into the chicken tender category with the launch of Tom’s Signature Tenders. This new offering signifies an innovative line of premium whole-muscle chicken.

    Tom’s Signature Tenders are prepared through a unique buttermilk marination process. The tenders are then coated in a signature breading that further enhances their taste and texture. They are available in both Original and Spicy varieties to cater to the varied palates of customers.

    Adding to this, Schnitz is also introducing two new dipping sauces – Signature Sauce and Premium Ranch – to perfectly complement the chicken tenders.

    The newly launched chicken tenders have been integrated into Schnitz’s menu in a number of formats. These include Tender packs and Tender boxes, created specifically to accommodate various dining occasions.

    These premium chicken tenders are available nationwide at all Schnitz locations. Customers can enjoy them either in-store or conveniently order them online.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the unique preparation method for Tom’s Signature Tenders?
    Tom’s Signature Tenders are prepared using a unique buttermilk marination process, followed by a coating of signature breading.

    What varieties are available for Tom’s Signature Tenders?
    Tom’s Signature Tenders are available in two varieties: Original and Spicy.

    Can customers order Tom’s Signature Tenders from any location and how can they do that?
    Yes, customers can order Tom’s Signature Tenders from any Schnitz location across the country. They have the option to enjoy their meal in-store or place an order online.

  • End of an Era: Jinjja Chicken Bids Farewell to Changi Airport, Teases New Location for 2026

    End of an Era: Jinjja Chicken Bids Farewell to Changi Airport, Teases New Location for 2026

    After operating for six successful years, Jinjja Chicken, a well-known fried chicken chain, has closed its shop located in Changi Airport. However, the brand hinted at a potential opening of a new outlet.

    Thanking the Loyal Customers

    In an announcement made on social media last week, Jinjja Chicken expressed heartfelt gratitude to its loyal customers for their unwavering support over the years. The brand appreciated all those customers who queued, craved, celebrated, and created lasting memories at the outlet over the past six years. The brand emphasized that the customers’ patronage significantly contributed to their journey, turning their dining experience into a space filled with camaraderie.

    Despite the closure of its Changi Airport outlet, Jinjja Chicken’s patrons in eastern Singapore need not worry. They can continue to enjoy their favourite dishes at the brand’s outlet located at Our Tampines Hub. The brand further ensured that this outlet offers an expanded menu to cater to all taste buds.

    The Journey Continues: Future Plans

    Jinjja Chicken currently operates six restaurants. However, their journey doesn’t end here. The brand has excitedly teased the opening of another new outlet, slated for March 2026. While the exact location of the upcoming outlet remains a mystery, the brand invited the public to guess the location, dropping a hint that the place starts with the letter “B”.

    Jinjja Chicken is well-known for serving crunchy deep-fried chicken tossed in an array of sauces. Besides their signature offering, the brand also serves a variety of South Korean dishes such as kimbap and spicy noodles, catering to a wide range of culinary preferences.

    Questions & Answers

    What will happen to Jinjja Chicken’s outlet at Changi Airport?
    The outlet at Changi Airport has closed after six years of operation, as announced by Jinjja Chicken.

    Where can customers in eastern Singapore find Jinjja Chicken now?
    Customers from eastern Singapore can still enjoy Jinjja Chicken’s offerings at their outlet located at Our Tampines Hub.

    Does Jinjja Chicken plan to open a new outlet?
    Yes, Jinjja Chicken has hinted at the opening of a new outlet scheduled for March 2026 with the location starting with the letter “B”.

  • South Korean Firm The Venture Acquires Majority Stake in Chicken Plus Vietnam, Targets Rapid Expansion

    South Korean Firm The Venture Acquires Majority Stake in Chicken Plus Vietnam, Targets Rapid Expansion

    South Korean investment firm, The Venture, has recently acquired the majority shares of Chicken Plus’ business operations in Vietnam. This is part of their overseas investment project fund.

    Chicken Plus: An Expanding Brand

    Chicken Plus, a renowned fried chicken brand from South Korea, operates under a franchising model. The chain, which was first established in 2016, has seen significant growth in its domestic market with over 500 locations currently in operation.

    In 2019, the brand made its debut in Vietnam and has since expanded to more than 100 locations across the nation.

    Investment Strategy

    The Venture secured its majority stake in Chicken Plus Vietnam through an overseas investment project fund. This fund also includes a key domestic chicken franchise company as a strategic investor.

    The investment firm aims to build on the existing local store network and operational infrastructure of Chicken Plus Vietnam. The goal is to increase its store count to 270 within the next four years.

    Aside from this expansion plan, the company also has plans to establish its own poultry farm. They aim to internalize production, distribution, and sales processes to ensure cost competitiveness and quality control.

    No Changes to Management

    Following the acquisition, there will be no alterations to the existing management or personnel.

    Daehyun Kim, a partner at The Venture who supervises investments in Vietnam, suggests that the acquisition’s primary objective is to enhance asset value. This is to be achieved through the integration of the Korean restaurant system with local infrastructure.

    The Venture firm has a history of investing in logistics data solutions and e-commerce startups, primarily in Vietnam and Malaysia. This latest deal indicates their expansion into the restaurant sector.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the goal of The Venture’s acquisition of Chicken Plus Vietnam?
    The Venture aims to increase the store count of Chicken Plus Vietnam to 270 within the next four years, by leveraging the existing local store network and operational infrastructure.

    What changes will occur after the acquisition?
    There will be no changes to the existing management or personnel after the acquisition.

    What is the investment history of The Venture firm?
    The Venture has a history of investing in logistics data solutions and e-commerce startups, primarily in Vietnam and Malaysia. This latest acquisition signals its expansion into the restaurant sector.

  • KFC Loyalty Program Captivates China: 590 Million Members and Counting

    KFC Loyalty Program Captivates China: 590 Million Members and Counting

    Yum China, the parent company of KFC in China, reported a significant expansion in its digital loyalty programs which now boast over 590 million members, accounting for over 40% of the country’s population.

    Growth in Loyalty Programs

    According to Yum China’s 2025 earnings report, unique membership in loyalty programs across KFC and Pizza Hut experienced a growth of 13% from the previous year. The report also revealed that 55% of the company’s sales were made through these programs.

    David Slavick, the founder of Ascendant Loyalty Marketing, a US-based consulting firm, referred to the achievement as “the largest loyalty program in the world”.

    Yum China’s Rapid Expansion

    Yum China Holdings, an offshoot of Yum Brands based in Shanghai, owns and franchises more than 18,000 stores across the country. This includes approximately 13,000 KFC locations, which the company claims is the largest restaurant chain in the country.

    The company has pursued a strategy of quick expansion in a market where consumers utilize digital payment apps more extensively than in other consumer markets such as the United States, a trend which has sped up in recent times.

    Impact on Yum China’s Business

    On Wednesday, Yum China’s CEO, Joey Wat, informed investors that the KFC loyalty program was “really helping our long-term and short-term business”. He attributed this to the growth in the popularity of the KPRO brand, a healthier and more upscale version of KFC, which was launched in 2017. Wat revealed that 80 to 90% of KPRO’s sales come from KFC loyalty members.

    Wat also mentioned that the company’s new AI ordering assistant for KFC app users, which was rolled out across the country in January, has been used by two million members so far, mainly by diners ordering breakfast and coffee.

    Increasing Trend of Digital Ordering

    Industry experts indicate that consumers in China use digital ordering apps more frequently than their counterparts in the United States. The market for loyalty programs in China was worth nearly $20 billion in 2025 and is projected to reach almost $33 billion by 2029.

    Yum China reported that 265 million users are active, meaning they have used the program in the past year. The company’s brand-specific loyalty apps, similar to the ones in the US, allow users to order meals and deliveries digitally, and also offer discounts and personalized recommendations. Unlike most restaurant brands in the US, Yum China’s KFC app also has paid and invitation-only tiers in its membership program that provide free deliveries and prioritization in delivery queues.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the scale of Yum China’s digital loyalty programs?
    Yum China’s digital loyalty programs have over 590 million members, which represents over 40% of the population of China.

    How much of Yum China’s sales are made through their loyalty programs?
    According to the company’s report, 55% of their sales are made through their digital loyalty programs.

    What is special about Yum China’s KFC app?
    Unlike most US restaurant brands, Yum China’s KFC app has paid and invitation-only tiers in its membership program. These tiers provide benefits such as free deliveries and prioritization in delivery queues.

  • Wingstop Takes Flight: Iconic Fast Food Chain Breaks into Thailand Market in Global Expansion Blitz

    Wingstop Takes Flight: Iconic Fast Food Chain Breaks into Thailand Market in Global Expansion Blitz

    Fast-food chain Wingstop is rapidly broadening its international reach by expanding into three new markets: Thailand, Italy, and Ireland. This move comes as part of the company’s ambitious plan for global expansion.

    Wingstop has recently celebrated a significant milestone in its growth trajectory by inaugurating its 3000th restaurant. Over the past two years, the company has shown robust expansion, adding close to 800 locations across the globe.

    This recent growth phase has seen Wingstop making its debut in six new markets, including Australia, Bahrain, Kuwait, Puerto Rico, Saudi Arabia, and the Netherlands.

    Michael Skipworth, the current President and CEO of Wingstop, expressed his confidence in the company’s continued growth. He highlighted that with a record pipeline of restaurant commitments sold, there seemed to be no slowing down for the Wingstop brand.

    Wingstop was founded in 1994 and has since become popular for its buffalo wings and sandwiches. The company has its operational footprint in 47 US states and 15 countries worldwide. Through franchising or direct operations, Wingstop has more than 10,000 restaurants in total.

    Questions & Answers

    What is Wingstop?
    Wingstop is a popular fast-food chain, established in 1994. It is known for its buffalo wings and sandwiches.

    Where does Wingstop operate?
    Wingstop operates in 47 US states and 15 countries globally. It has more than 10,000 restaurants which operate either through franchising or direct operations.

    What are the new markets Wingstop is expanding into?
    Wingstop is expanding its operations into three new markets: Thailand, Italy, and Ireland.

  • KFC’s Zinger Banh Mi Sparks Debate: Innovative Fusion or Vietnamese Cuisine Faux Pas?

    KFC’s Zinger Banh Mi Sparks Debate: Innovative Fusion or Vietnamese Cuisine Faux Pas?

    KFC Australia has stirred up a buzz in the culinary world with its unique food fusion, the Zinger Banh Mi. This novel dish marries KFC’s crispy chicken fillet with a classic Vietnamese sandwich, introducing a fresh and somewhat unconventional dining experience.

    A Taste of Innovation

    On November 4, KFC Australia rolled out the Zinger Banh Mi across the country, following a successful trial run in Newcastle. This limited-edition dish comprises coleslaw, chili, coriander, mayonnaise, KFC Supercharger sauce, and a Zinger chicken fillet, all nestled within a traditional Banh Mi roll.

    Sally Spriggs, KFC’s group marketing director, expressed her excitement about the new offering. She said, “At KFC, we love putting our own spin on modern foods, and the Zinger Banh Mi is our take on a dearly-loved classic. It’s an exquisite blend of spice, freshness, and texture, a truly tantalising combination that heralds flavor innovation while offering our fans a fresh way to savour our renowned Zinger.”

    Melding Flavours and Cultures

    Food enthusiasts have shown considerable interest in this unique concoction. Georgia Mahood hailed it as the “ultimate flavor fusion”, characterising it as a marriage of KFC’s signature spice with the light and refreshing flavours typical of a Banh Mi. The traditional Vietnamese sandwich usually comprises a crusty baguette filled with ingredients like pate, grilled chicken, beef, pickles, and herbs.

    However, not all reactions to the Zinger Banh Mi have been entirely positive. Some critics, particularly those familiar with traditional Banh Mi, have expressed scepticism. One reviewer noted, “The banh mi from KFC was tasty, but it didn’t really taste like a banh mi. It’s missing the absolutely vital ingredients that define a banh mi!”

    The Zinger Banh Mi is available at select KFC restaurants, priced from AUD9.95 (US$6.50). However, this offering is only available until December 1.

    A Global Taste Journey

    The Zinger Banh Mi is part of KFC’s strategy to expand its menu with international-inspired offerings. This initiative features a series of limited-edition releases that tap into global food trends. Other offerings include the Sweet Tokyo Feast, which boasts crispy fried chicken coated in a sweet teriyaki-style glaze and sprinkled with sesame seeds. Earlier, the fast-food chain launched a kebab range that combined its iconic Original Recipe and Zinger chicken with flavourful salads and sauces.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the Zinger Banh Mi?
    The Zinger Banh Mi is a fusion of KFC’s crispy chicken fillet and a traditional Vietnamese sandwich. It features coleslaw, chili, coriander, mayonnaise, KFC Supercharger sauce, and a Zinger chicken fillet, served on a Banh Mi roll.

    Where can the Zinger Banh Mi be purchased, and for how long?
    The Zinger Banh Mi is available at selected KFC restaurants until December 1. The price starts at AUD9.95 (US$6.50).

    What other international-inspired offerings has KFC introduced?
    KFC has launched a series of limited-edition menu items inspired by international cuisine. These include the Sweet Tokyo Feast, featuring teriyaki-style glazed chicken, and a range of kebabs combining its Original Recipe and Zinger chicken with salads and sauces.

  • TGI Fridays Ignites Indian Market with Massive Expansion: 51 New Locations on the Horizon

    TGI Fridays Ignites Indian Market with Massive Expansion: 51 New Locations on the Horizon

    Sugarloaf TGIF Management, the parent company of TGI Fridays, has entered into a master franchise agreement with USR Hospitality, an Indian corporation. The intention is to open 51 TGI Fridays restaurants throughout India.

    Key Personnel

    John Neitzel, former president and COO of TGI Fridays, has come on board with USR Hospitality to assist in the brand’s expansion within the Indian market. His leadership and comprehensive knowledge of the TGI Fridays brand, coupled with his record of achievement, were cited by USR Hospitality as key reasons for his appointment.

    “We’re privileged to serve as the master franchisee in India and are excited about collaborating with John to extend the TGI Fridays brand throughout the nation,” commented Prasoon Mukherjee, the Chairman of USR Hospitality.

    He went on to further explain the company’s strategic advantages, stating, “John is an accomplished leader with a profound understanding of the TGI Fridays brand and a solid track record of success. Coupled with our in-depth expertise in the hospitality industry, comprehension of the consumer preferences in our markets, and real estate development acumen, USR is uniquely positioned to spur unprecedented growth for the brand.”

    Expansion Plans

    USR Hospitality’s development plans for TGI Fridays include both high-street and mall locations. Furthermore, the company has acquired exclusive rights to establish restaurants in airports across the country. This strategy aims to bring the TGI Fridays dining experience to millions of travelers throughout India.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the nature of the agreement between Sugarloaf TGIF Management and USR Hospitality?

    The two companies have entered into a master franchise agreement that will see the development of 51 TGI Fridays restaurants across India.

    Who is John Neitzel and what is his role in this project?

    John Neitzel is the former president and COO of TGI Fridays. He has joined USR Hospitality to assist in the expansion of the brand in India.

    What are the locations targeted by USR Hospitality for the development of TGI Fridays?

    USR Hospitality plans to develop TGI Fridays restaurants in high-street and mall locations across India. They have also secured exclusive rights to open restaurants in airports nationwide.

  • Yum China Unveils ‘Fried Chicken Brothers’: A New Twist On Fast-food With Chinese And Korean Flavors

    Yum China Unveils ‘Fried Chicken Brothers’: A New Twist On Fast-food With Chinese And Korean Flavors

    Yum China, KFC’s operator in the country, has discreetly introduced a fresh pilot concept by the name of Fried Chicken Brothers, further diversifying its localized sub-brands.

    The pilot currently runs two compact stores in Shanghai, each approximately 20sqm in size, with a particular focus on takeaway and delivery services.

    The innovative brand presents two unique culinary adventures. One specializes in Chinese-style fried chicken, while the other embraces the distinct flavors of Korean-style fried chicken.

    The Chinese menu features dishes inspired by regional flavors, such as chicken spiced with Litsea cubeba, crispy chicken skin paired with chili, and chicken racks with a unique taste of Yanbian barbecue kimchi. The Korean-style shop, on the other hand, emphasizes boneless fried chicken, served with an array of bold sauces including creamy cheese, amber sweet and spicy, and honey mustard sauces.

    Based on user reviews, the average spending per person is estimated around 30 RMB (approximately US$4.12), positioning Fried Chicken Brothers as a cost-effective and flavor-rich alternative in the fast-food fried chicken market.

    This new addition expands Yum China’s increasing portfolio of KFC sub-brands in the country, which further includes KCoffee and Kpro. This move aligns with the company’s broader strategy of diversifying its offerings to cater to younger consumers and adapt to the ever-changing local tastes.

    Questions & Answers

    What is Yum China’s new pilot concept?
    Yum China has introduced a new pilot concept called Fried Chicken Brothers, which offers Chinese and Korean-style fried chicken.

    What does the Fried Chicken Brothers menu offer?
    The menu offers two distinct culinary experiences. The Chinese-style menu features dishes like Litsea cubeba-spiced chicken and Yanbian barbecue kimchi-flavoured chicken racks. The Korean-style menu focuses on boneless fried chicken with a variety of sauces.

    What is the positioning of Fried Chicken Brothers in the market?
    As per user reviews, the average spending per person is around 30 RMB (US$4.12), thus positioning Fried Chicken Brothers as an affordable and flavor-rich alternative in the fast-food fried chicken market.

  • Heinz Unveils Novel Fried Chicken Sauce In Partnership With Gami Chicken

    Heinz Unveils Novel Fried Chicken Sauce In Partnership With Gami Chicken

    Heinz has recently launched their novel Fried Chicken Sauce, which is now available in supermarkets and for a brief duration, through a partnership with the popular Korean fried chicken outlet, Gami Chicken.

    A New Addition to the Condiment Aisle

    The newly introduced sauce is characterized by its bold, creamy, sweet, and spicy flavor, specially crafted to enhance the taste of fried chicken. This addition to the condiment selection is expected to bring a distinctive flavor profile to the dining table.

    Partnership with Gami Chicken

    In conjunction with the sauce’s debut, Heinz established a collaboration with Gami Chicken restaurants in Victoria, NSW, SA, and WA. For a limited period, patrons have the option to order a combo meal that includes boneless fried chicken, chips, and the new Heinz Fried Chicken Sauce.

    Jun Lee, the founder of Gami Chicken, spoke highly of the latest product. In his words, the new sauce from Heinz was a standout in a saturated market and has been a pleasant surprise in taste and quality. Lee also expressed his excitement to be involved in a launch that celebrates bold and delicious flavors.

    Availability and Pricing

    Heinz Fried Chicken Sauce retails for an RRP of $4.80 for a 295ml bottle and is currently available at Coles. The distribution of the product will broaden to include Woolworths and Metcash stores from September 29 onwards.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the flavour profile of the new Heinz Fried Chicken Sauce?
    The sauce has a unique combination of bold, creamy, sweet, and spicy flavours.

    Where can consumers find Heinz’s new Fried Chicken Sauce?
    The sauce is currently available at Coles and will soon be distributed to Woolworths and Metcash stores from September 29.

    What does the limited-time partnership with Gami Chicken entail?
    As part of the partnership, for a limited time, customers at Gami Chicken restaurants can order a combo meal that includes boneless fried chicken, chips, and the new Heinz Fried Chicken Sauce.

  • Chick-fil-a’s Global Leap: Plans For Permanent Outlets In Singapore, Uk Unveiled

    Chick-fil-a’s Global Leap: Plans For Permanent Outlets In Singapore, Uk Unveiled

    Chick-fil-A, the renowned American fast-food chain, is gearing up to establish its inaugural permanent eateries in Singapore and the UK. This move aligns with their expansion strategy that was unveiled last year.

    Singapore and UK Expansion

    The first Chick-fil-A restaurant in Singapore is slated to follow the brand’s triumphant pop-up event from last year, while the UK branch is anticipated to launch in Leeds this autumn.

    The restaurants in both nations will be directed by owner-operators native to the respective countries. Chick-fil-A is confident that their comprehension of the local community’s tastes will be advantageous for the company’s global growth.

    Anita Costello, Chick-fil-A’s Chief International Officer, stated that the local owner-operators are fostering impactful relationships by investing in the requirements of the neighborhoods where they will be catering to guests.

    Further International Expansion

    Hugh Park, who oversees operations in the Asia Pacific, revealed last year that the company is investigating various markets within Asia. Moreover, Chick-fil-A has set a goal to inaugurate five international outlets by 2030.

    In the previous year, Chick-fil-A had declared their intentions to open new restaurants in several UK locations, including Belfast, Leeds, Liverpool, and London.

    Questions & Answers

    When are the new Chick-fil-A outlets in Singapore and the UK scheduled to open?
    The Singapore branch is set to open later this year, following the successful pop-up event from last year. The UK outlet is expected to begin operations in Leeds this autumn.

    Who will be leading these new Chick-fil-A restaurants?
    The eateries in both Singapore and the UK will be managed by local owner-operators.

    What are Chick-fil-A’s future plans for international expansion?
    Hugh Park, who oversees the company’s Asia Pacific operations, mentioned last year that Chick-fil-A is exploring various markets within Asia. They aim to open five international locations by 2030.

  • CJ Foods Launches Locally-sourced Bibigo Korean-style Fried Chicken In Australia

    CJ Foods Launches Locally-sourced Bibigo Korean-style Fried Chicken In Australia

    CJ Foods Oceania, a division of the international CJ Group, has introduced its Bibigo Korean-Style Fried Chicken line, produced and procured locally in Australia.

    New Korean-Inspired Chicken Range Launched

    The Bibigo Korean-Style Fried Chicken range boasts two enticing flavours: ‘Sweet & Spicy’ and ‘Soy & Honey’. Nationwide sourced whole chicken breast cuts form the heart of this product line, which are then coated with a light, crispy batter.

    Convenient and Quick Preparation

    Each product comes with a separate sauce pack for easy and quick preparation, providing options for oven-cooking or air-frying. This launch is a continuation of the company’s introduction of other frozen food items, such as Mandu (Korean dumplings), Gimbap (Seaweed rice rolls), Rice balls, Bao (Chinese steamed buns), Soup Mandu (Soup dumplings), and Seaweed Chips.

    A Taste for Authentic International Flavours

    Eugene Cha-Navarro, Managing Director and CEO of CJ Foods Oceania, noted Australia’s well-developed taste for bold, internationally influenced flavours and its ongoing preference for traditional Korean cuisine. “Our focus is not solely on packaging, but also on sourcing local ingredients, understanding local tastes, and cultivating relationships with Australian farmers and producers,” he added.

    The Bibigo Korean-Style Fried Chicken range is now available nationally across Woolworths and will be available from IGA starting from mid-August.

    Questions & Answers

    What flavours does the Bibigo Korean-Style Fried Chicken range offer?
    The range currently offers two flavours, ‘Sweet & Spicy’ and ‘Soy & Honey’.

    How can the product be prepared?
    The product comes with a separate sauce pack for quick and easy preparation, including options for oven-cooking or air-frying.

    Where can the Bibigo Korean-Style Fried Chicken range be purchased?
    The range is available nationally across Woolworths outlets and will be available in IGA stores from mid-August.

  • KFC drives strong annual growth for Collins Foods

    KFC drives strong annual growth for Collins Foods

    The Australian expansion of KFC and Taco Bell drove a 20.3 per cent increase in net profit to $39.1 million for Collins Foods Limited in fiscal 2019.

    The food retailer, which reported its full-year earnings on Tuesday, said revenue was up 16.9 per cent on last year, at $901.2 million, thanks to KFC’s strong growth in all states, with 3.7 per cent same-store sales growth.

    “Over the past 12 months we have consolidated our position as the largest KFC operator in Australia, with initiatives around digital and delivery expected to drive further growth,” Collins Foods’ managing director and chief executive Graham Maxwell said.

    “Our focus on operational initiatives across our brands has underpinned another record result, with revenue now over $900 million and underlying EBITDA of $113.7 million.”

    According to Maxwell, KFC’s result in Australia was driven by increasing transactions and efficiencies, which led to an EBITDA increase of 20.9 per cent to $120 million.

    Additionally, the business has grown its delivery capacity through meal-delivery apps Deliveroo and Menulog, with 64 restaurants nationwide now supporting the services.

    Seven new restaurants were built and opened during the financial year, while two were closed.

    Collins Foods’ Taco Bell rollout in Australia continues to gain traction, Maxwell said, with the brand trading in line with expectations.

    “We have now successfully opened four Taco Bell restaurants in Queensland, and continue to work on developing the pipeline for sites, with 10 restaurants planned for opening before the end of the year, including the planned entry into Victoria in early 2020,” said Maxwell.

    Continuing the scaling down of its Sizzler business in Australia, Collins Foods shuttered a total of two restaurants in FY19, bringing the total number of locations to 12.

    Sizzler same-store sales grew 4.4 per cent in FY19, compared to the 0.5 per cent decline the chain faced in FY18.

    What’s next?

    Looking toward FY20, Maxwell noted the group would continue to focus on executing its operational, delivery and digital initiatives to drive value for customers and shareholders alike.

    “In our KFC Australia business, we are focused on further expanding the delivery network, rolling out and testing digital initiatives such as digital board implementation for drive-thrus, and further strengthening operational systems,” Maxwell said.

    Additionally, the group plans to increase the amount of new KFCs being built, from approximately nine in the year, to approximately ten, as well as the ongoing store refurbishment initiatives.

    “Our rollout of the Taco Bell brand in Australia will gain pace during FY20, with further restaurants to be opened in Queensland and the entry into Victoria in early 2020,” Maxwell said.

    “We intend to complete 10 new restaurant builds by the end of the year, and we remain focused on operational performance to ensure business model returns are delivered.”

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  • Jollibee Hong Kong unveils new design concept

    Jollibee Hong Kong unveils new design concept

    The renowned Filipino fast-food chain, Jollibee recently revealed a revitalized restaurant concept in Hong Kong which has been developed by the London-based design studio, Shed. This reimagined design will be implemented in five new stores. It incorporates a specially chosen color scheme, combined materials, custom-built furniture, and illustrative components, all of which are influenced by Jollibee’s Filipino roots.

    A Playful Identity with a Sophisticated Touch

    Shed’s co-founder Matt Smith stated that the fresh design maintains the brand’s lively persona while infusing it with a more polished look to appeal to international markets. Smith mentioned, “Our objective was not merely to create a distinctively unique design but to ensure that the pervasive sense of joy resonates universally, expressed uniformly across all design and brand touchpoints.”

    Reimagined Mascots and Store Layout

    The redesign also reinterprets Jollibee’s mascots, merging their familiar charm with contemporary branding techniques. According to the team at Shed, the underpinning idea of their concept is to place a smile at the center of all aspects, which is reflected in every feature of the visual identity and store configuration.

    Carl Tan, chairman of Jollibee Foods China, elaborated on this, stating, “Each detail has been meticulously aligned with the original strategy, resulting in a true tribute to the spirit of Jollibee. The outcome is a setting that we’re immensely proud of – one that radiates warmth, vibrancy, and a sense of joy.”

    The first two outlets to showcase this redesign are located in the basement of the Metropole Building on Peking Rd, in Tsim Sha Tsui, and on the ground floor of the China Harbour Building, on King’s Rd, at North Point.

    Questions & Answers

    What overarching idea does the new store concept of Jollibee revolve around?
    The new store concept is hinged on the idea of “putting a smile at the heart of everything,” which impacts all facets of the visual identity and store layout.

    Who is responsible for this new design?
    London-based design studio, Shed is responsible for creating the new design for Jollibee.

    Where are the first two redesigned Jollibee outlets located?
    The first two redesigned outlets are situated in the basement of the Metropole Building, on Peking Rd, in Tsim Sha Tsui, and on the ground floor of the China Harbour Building, on King’s Rd, at North Point.

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