Operations

KFC, Taco Bell temporarily close all Puerto Rico locations

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November 2, 2026

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All KFC and Taco Bell restaurants in Puerto Rico have temporarily closed after Yum! Brands terminated its relationship with island-based franchise operator Encanto Restaurants, citing the operator's inability to "meet company standards." Yum! Brands said it remains committed to the Puerto Rico market and is working to find a new franchise partner to reopen the restaurants as quickly as possible, according to an ABC News report.

Encanto Restaurants operates approximately 180 restaurants across the U.S. territory, including Pizza Hut and IHOP locations, and employs more than 3,000 people. The company had operated Taco Bell in Puerto Rico since 1985, while the island's first KFC opened in 1967.

As of press time, Yum!, KFC and Taco Bell had not responded to a request for comment. The story will be updated as more information is known.