News

KFC campaign raises more than $4 million for breast cancer research

July 21, 2010

KFC's "Buckets for the Cure" campaign, which kicked off in April, raised $4.2 million for the Susan G. Komen for the Cure foundation. The foundation specifically raises funds for breast cancer awareness, education and research.

For the campaign, more than 5,000 KFC restaurants changed the color of their iconic red bucket to pink, with restaurant operators donating 50 cents for each bucket purchased. Additionally, the KFC Colonel switched out his classic white suit and ribbon tie for a pink suit at various local events.

Twenty-five percent of the funds raised from the promotion went directly toward local Susan G. Komen for the Cure affiliates. The funds will be used for local breast cancer education, screening and treatment programs.

The effort, however, was met with some protests. According to the Louisville Courier-Journal, some activist groups called the partnership between KFC and Komen "pinkwashing."

Shortly after the campaign began, nonprofit group Breast Cancer Action launched a counter campaign called "What the Cluck," urging people to write protest letters to KFC and Komen. The group cried hypocrisy with "Buckets for a Cure," claiming it made no sense to promote breast cancer with an unhealthy product such as fried chicken.

Yum! Brands, KFC's parent company based in Louisville, Ky., disagreed, claiming that only Kentucky Grilled Chicken was featured in the "Buckets for the Cure" advertisements. Additionally, Komen has made it clear it does not partner with certain brands - such as tobacco and alcohol products - that are unhealthy.

The campaign, which ended in May, generated sales of about 8 million buckets of chicken, each with a 50 cent donation. KFC will present a $4.2 million check to the Susan G. Komen for the Cure.