I hope you’ve enjoyed reading my short series of posts about my “behind the scenes” visit to KFC HQ. Through KFC Me, I tried to add some nuance to the discussion about what it means to eat fast food and to get past the urban myths and corporate hype to tell the truth about what this global fried chicken peddler is and does.
I don’t think the visit really changed my attitude toward the brand or that I will now begin patronising the restaurants on any sort of regular basis. But my view of KFC is slightly more positive than it was before. I am more aware of how KFC goes about its business and how those charged with expressing the KFC message perceive its image. There’s value in that, and I appreciate the folks at KFC for opening their doors (and kitchens) to me. I must add that everyone was incredibly friendly … and not in any sort of creepy party line overly corporate sort of way. Just nice and seemingly happy to hear what I thought about things.
Before heading back to London, I was given a £10 gift voucher redeemable at any KFC restaurant in Great Britain or Ireland. I’m kinda looking forward to the ‘rainy day moment’ I cash it in. I see the voucher as a good excuse to indulge in some trashy, yummy nosh. After that, well, I’m not sure. However, I don’t think I’ll start to frequent KFC or that anyone else should ever envisage these restaurants as anything other than a place to have an occasional treat.
Here’s a list of all the posts in the series:
Special thanks to Jenny Packwood, Head of Communications & CSR for KFC UK & Ireland, for her time and consideration during my day at KFC’s offices in Woking and at the restaurant in Heathrow.
