KFC is branching out from fast food restaurants in a big way by opening up a British pub called the 'Colonel’s Arms' in London, England on November 25, 2022.
Located in the Hammersmith neighborhood, the Colonel’s Arms will combine the best of a traditional British pub with the food of KFC. This means you can sip on a pint while watching TV or playing foosball, and then chow down on some finger-lickin’ good chicken. As the Eventbright description for the grand opening reads: "Promising an unmatched football viewing experience, away from the winter frost and beer garden benches as the Colonel brings his Southern fried charm to this British classic."
Though the KFC pub is the only one of its kind right now, fans stateside can purchase limited-edition merch like pint glasses, bottle openers, and bar mats.
Hybrid Fast Food Pubs
KFC is Opening a Pub in London, England Called the Colonel’s Arms
Trend Themes
1. Hybrid Pub-restaurants - The combination of traditional pub activities and restaurant offerings presents a disruptive innovation opportunity for the food and beverage industry.
2. Limited-edition Food and Beverage Merchandise - The release of KFC limited-edition merch in conjunction with the pub opening showcases the growth potential of restaurant merchandise for fast-food chains.
3. Branded Experience Hubs - The creation of the Colonel's Arms establishes a unique space where consumers can immerse themselves in the KFC brand, affording the opportunity to create branded experience hubs that foster greater loyalty and engagement for the food industry.
Industry Implications
1. Fast Food - Fast food chains can explore the possibility of incorporating sit-down restaurant elements in their offerings to tap into untapped markets.
2. Restaurant Merchandise - The success of KFC's limited-edition pub merchandise and the enduring popularity of food-themed merch can inspire fast food chains to explore merchandise opportunities to create an additional revenue stream.
3. Brand Experience - By creating unique spaces that combine multiple experiences, brands can offer consumers a fully immersive opportunity to connect with the brand, enhancing customer loyalty and brand engagement.