• by Teresa Buyikian , November 3, 2023

Yum Brands released its 2024 Q3 earnings this week, reporting worldwide system sales growth of 10%, with KFC surpassing all other brands with 12% growth. Taco Bell came in second at 11%.

“KFC International and Taco Bell U.S., which collectively contribute approximately 80% of our divisional operating profit, fueled this quarter's growth,” said Yum CEO David Gibbs on the earnings call. “Together, these twin growth engines delivered a … 13% system sales growth in the quarter. KFC International has the most units among quick-service restaurants in 60 countries and has been adding more absolute units than any other retail brand in the world since 2021.”

Gibbs also teased a new U.S. KFC loyalty program: “The KFC global team is also making great progress in expanding its loyalty program around the world, including in the U.S. where we soon expect to launch KFC Rewards.”

Separately, today KFC announced the launch of new holiday bucket design and matching holiday merchandise collection, in addition to two new menu items.

This year the limited-edition holiday buckets, a KFC tradition since the 1960s,  themed as the "Secret Recipe of Joy," depict illustrated images of holiday trees, snowmen and various anthropomorphized KFC menu items frolicking in snow. The buckets, as well as new similarly themed $20 Fill Up Boxes, will be available beginning Nov. 12.

New for 2023 is a KFC line of merchandise, also with the theme and imagery of “Secret Recipe of Joy.” The KFC Holiday Collection includes sweater, hoodies, hats, bags and a KFC gravy-inspired shirt for holiday gatherings. The merch is available at KFCShop.com.