Chick-Fil-A Beats KFC As Top Fast Food Chicken Chain
It's official. Chick-Fil-A has beaten KFC as the no.1 chicken chain for the second year in a row. Its prior victory over KFC was in 2012.
According to preliminary data reports from food industry researcher Technomic, Chick-Fil-A remains in the lead due to its busier locations.
Currently, KFC has more restaurants than Chick-Fil-A, however the Atlanta-based food chain continues to surpass in sales. Reports from Bloomberg Businessweek show that Chick-Fil-A earned $5.5 billion with 1,775 stores while KFC made $4.2 billion with 4,438 stores. It should also be noted that Chick-Fil-A continues to dominate in sales while also choosing to remain closed on Sundays due to religious observation.
In addition to its busy locations, Chick-Fil-A offers something in their menu that KFC does not. It offers breakfast. Some of Chick-Fil-A's signature breakfast items include the Chicken Breakfast Burrito, the Chick-Fil-A Chicken Biscuit, the Chick-Fil-A Chick-n-Minis, and Chicken Egg & Cheese on Sunflower Multigrain Bagel.
The winning chain also has a strong presence in the South with very loyal customers who flock to its popular fried chicken sandwiches and waffle fries. According to the Atlanta Times-Journal, part of Chick-Fil-A's loyal fan base also stems from those who once opposed the store.
Two years ago, Chick-Fil-A owner Dan Cathy stirred up controversy when he publicized his disapproval of same sex marriage. Outraged protestors boycotted the chain but some were bribed with free chicken from the store owner, reports the Atlanta Times- Journal.
In an effort to boost sales, KFC has expanded its menu, creating new items such as the boneless chicken pieces and snack cups designed to fit a car cup holder. KFC has even gone as far as working on an upscale version of its fast food restaurant called 'KFC Eleven.' KFC is owned by Yum Brands Inc.
In light of recent reports showing Chick-Fil-A as the top chicken chain, the company has sent out an email saying that it is "deeply grateful" for its loyal customers as it expands into new markets.
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