KFC has officially unveiled a new logo that marks a radical departure from its iconic branding, omitting the familiar face of Colonel Harland Sanders. The redesign, which has already sparked widespread backlash, features a white bucket shape with three red stripes, each reading 'KFC.'
Fans react with fury
Shortly after the news was shared on Metro's Instagram page, criticism poured in. User @welldoneidonthateyou wrote: 'Absolutely not, CHANGE IT BACK. NO ONE LIKES MINIMALIST LOGOS.' Others echoed the sentiment, with @deedave87 stating: 'They are making everything dull, basic and boring,' while @mattadamsonhr called the move 'basic' and 'uninspired.'
@buildchef argued the franchise should focus on 'the recipe, not the logo,' and @mrcole89, who confessed to 'growing up' on KFC, said the brand now feels like 'sloppy grease.' Some fans linked the rebrand to price hikes, as @lee_t_s1 likened the new look to a 'Temu KFC.'
The missing Colonel
The absence of Colonel Sanders, a staple of KFC's identity since the 1930s, has been a particular point of contention. User @el_spookio asked: 'Where's the Colonel? Is he safe? Is he alright?' The Colonel's image had been central to KFC's branding for decades, appearing on logos, packaging, and advertising.
According to KFC, the new logo is part of a broader revamp aimed at feeling 'more in tune' with modern culture while staying true to its Southern roots. The changes include a refreshed bargain bucket design and a new recipe for chicken tenders, along with nine new sauces, all featuring the simplified branding.
Rollout and CEO comments
Not all KFC stores have adopted the new look yet. Last week, four UK restaurants—Aldershot, Brixton, Baker Street, and Slough—underwent an 'overnight' revamp. Scott Mezvinsky, CEO of KFC Global, said: 'In an increasingly crowded category, we have a clear opportunity to set the standard for modern chicken. This next chapter brings new energy and expression to what makes us iconic, while doubling down on our chicken and reimagining how fans experience KFC around the world.'
Fast food branding trends
KFC's rebrand follows a trend of fast food chains updating their logos and menus. Last month, McDonald's announced it would replace its 'Wrap of the Day' with 'Wrap in the App' starting July 14. Meanwhile, US-based chicken chain Raising Cane's is preparing to open its first UK location at 21-22 Coventry Street in London, with no official opening date set yet.
