At least three local Kenn-Taco (KFC + Taco Bell) locations are eliminating KFC and reopening as only Taco Bell. ToNeTo Atlanta readers report that KFC/Taco Bell restaurants in West Cobb, Embry Hills, and Roswell have all closed in recent weeks with signage indicating they will reopen as Taco Bell only. Initial reports were that all locations had closed permanently which is not true.
The company in early 2022 shuttered a KFC restaurant along Windward Parkway in Alpharetta. Earlier this year Jim 'N Nick's Community Bar-B-Q opened in place of KFC.
Local readers tell ToNeTo Atlanta that the Embry Hills unit actually started its life as a KFC before adding Taco Bell years later. The company also owns the KFC at 3901 Buford Highway in Brookhaven, which after years as a KFC, added Pizza Hut and later eliminated Pizza Hut from its offerings.
KBP is based in Leawood, Kansas and primarily franchises KFC, Taco Bell and Arby's, but according to its website also operates some KFC + A&W locations as well as some KFC + Long John Silvers units. As of 2021 the company hit $1 billion in system-wide sales.
Both Taco Bell and KFC are concepts from YUM! Brands, whereas Arby's is owned by Atlanta-based Inspire Brands. A&W and Long John Silvers were both previously owned by YUM! but are today independently owned.
ToNeTo Atlanta inquired with KBP Foods regarding the decision to eliminate KFC from the local units but despite multiple attempts, we received no response. It's unclear when the Taco Bell units will reopen or if more than the three units in metro Atlanta are affected by the change.
Are you surprised to see the company close its KFC restaurants? What is your favorite friend chicken chain? Do you think Taco Bell is the superior quick serve Mexican chain?
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