Hilton said the business he runs saw growth in 2013, although consumers have become more cautious and economical, adding the plan is to open three to five drive-thrus in 2014 and to keep this trend in upcoming years.
The local KFC network currently consists of 51 restaurants, of which five drive-thrus located in Bucharest (two), Arad, Iasi and Sibiu.
The average investment in a restaurant located in a shopping mall amounts to around EUR350,000, whereas the funds earmarked for drive thru restaurants may reach EUR700,000. A new KFC restaurant creates 20-30 new jobs, while a drive-thru unit creates up to 50 new jobs.
Hilton pointed out that 2013 was a very challenging year, both at macroeconomic level, and in terms of consumption, as consumers have become more cautious and economical. According to Hilton, KFC’s main target in 2014 is to improve services, which will further help boost sales. Hilton also runs the operations of Pizza Hut, Paul, Cinnabon and Hard Rock Cafe in Romania.
KFC restaurants on the Romanian market are administered through the company US Food Network, which registered turnover of RON187.1 million (EUR42.4 million) in 2012, up 16% on the year, and 13% higher profit of nearly RON10 million (EUR2.26 million).
US Food Network’s associates are Bladon Enterprises (27.33%), Tatika Investments (27.33%) and Lunic Franchising and Consulting Ltd (22.34%), registered in Cyprus, and Bucharest-registered M.B.L. Computers (23%).