America's well-loved chicken chain is getting a makeover. KFC has unveiled its new store design concept, and it looks fresher, younger, and certainly more updated.
According to Business Insider, KFC enlisted the help of FRCH Design Worldwide, a design firm that has previously worked with other big fastfood chains such as McDonald's, California Pizza Kitchen and Taco Bell.
The new design aims to grab a passerby's attention, with its bold, iconic red-and-white exterior. The concept was reportedly inspired with KFC's beginnings, founded during the 1950s. Colonel Sanders takes front and center, with a huge illustration of his face painted in front, along with the tagline that reads "World Famous Chicken."
KFC revamped its retail stores with a bolder ribbon and iconic colonel’s smile. https://t.co/Rib8q4ohhl #redesign #outlet
— Kwan Harsono (@Kwan_Harsono) January 27, 2016
The famous founder is also ubiquitous inside. Old photos of Sanders are hung on the walls in huge, black and white frames, as are some of his famous quotes and sayings. The company hopes that this nostalgia, mixed with new concepts, can bring in America's younger crowd.
New features include high counters with matching high chairs, and a semi-circular seating booth in the middle of the area. Above it is a lamp in the form of KFC's famous bucket.
KFC has begun testing the new look since 2014. At least 70 percent of its 4,500 restaurants will be overhauled by 2017.
This redesign may have been brought about by failing sales over the last couple of years. As reported by the Chicago Tribune, KFC was dethroned as America's top chicken-seller in 2012. Its much younger counterpart, Chick-fil-A, is now the chicken king.
Aside from the store renovation, KFC will also be taking other steps to help boost their sales. It is said to be re-doing its packaging and staff uniforms. It will also be revamping its menu, throwing in a couple of healthier options as the food industry shifts towards a more organic lifestyle.
