KFC China to revamp restaurants to create social hangout ambience

US-based KFC, the biggest foreign fast-food chain in China, is planning a major revamp and makeover of its 130 restaurants in China.

The plans include better Wi-Fi and mobile services to attract more customers. New store designs will feature gray and off-white walls with modern paintings hung on them. Wooden tables and green plants will be added to make the restaurants “more homey” under a new dining room concept. KFC said it plans to create a social hangout ambience for its customers.

Apart from the new store concept, KFC will also introduce new uniforms for its staff and will introduce a new electronic menu.

KFC’s parent company, Yum! Brands, said the company has planned to open 700 new restaurants in China this year and the concept will be followed by all newly established KFC stores as well as those undergoing renovation.

Yum! Brands’ China chairman and CEO Su Jingshi said KFC needs to undergo changes to cater to more customers. He said the company has to adapt to new strategies to keep up with the demands of its customers who prefer online and mobile transactions, and who want a comfortable environment suited for business meetings and social interaction.

By the end of the year, KFC China expects to have around 2,000 restaurants in China that offers free W-Fi services. In addition, customers will be able to pay for orders through mobile apps and receive their orders when they arrive at the restaurant.