Franchising

KFC opens 1st Stratford-upon-Avon restaurant, creating 50 jobs

Photo: KFC

August 11, 2026

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KFC has opened its first restaurant in Stratford-upon-Avon at the Maybird Centre in the U.K., bringing 50 jobs to the area, according to a press release.

The location features the brand's newest restaurant design, seating for 102 guests, four digital ordering kiosks and a dedicated waiting area for delivery drivers. The restaurant serves KFC's full menu, including the newly launched Tenders & Dips range and a limited-edition Crispy Naan menu.

Matthew Bell, regional coach for the Midlands and North West at KFC U.K. and Ireland, said the company is excited about the expansion.

"We're ready to take the stage in Stratford-upon-Avon with the town's very first KFC. As well as creating 50 new jobs, we'll be bringing our iconic fried chicken to new fans as we continue to invest and grow across the West Midlands. We've got a fantastic team in place, and we can't wait for opening day, " Bell said in the release.

As part of community initiatives, the Stratford-upon-Avon staff will conduct daily litter picks and donate surplus food to community kitchens through a partnership with The Felix Project.

The opening follows recent KFC research indicating the West Midlands is home to the U.K.'s biggest fried chicken fans, with 89% enjoying it compared to 70% nationally.

The new location is part of KFC's 1.5 billion pound growth plan in the U.K. and Ireland, an investment aimed at opening 500 restaurants and creating more than 7,000 jobs over the next decade.