KFC and Taco Bell boosts Yum Brands sales in Q4

Yum Brands has reported a 16% increase in revenues to $2.36bn (£1.90bn) for the fourth quarter ended December 31, 2024, fueled by strong sales at KFC’s international restaurants and Taco Bell US.

Its same-store sales also rose 1% in the quarter, thanks to Taco Bell.

Worldwide system sales grew 8%, with KFC at 6%, Taco Bell at 14%, and Pizza Hut at 3%. Meanwhile, GAAP operating profit for the group increased 6%% to $657m (£527.8m).

KFC’s operating profit increased 15% to $377m (£302.8m). However, KFC’s same-store sales were flat for the quarter.

Meanwhile, Taco Bell’s same store sales increased 5% and operating profit was up 19% to $340m (£273m).

The group also confirmed that it opened 18 gross new restaurants during the period.

However, although Pizza Hut reported a 3% growth in operating profit to $95m (£76.3m), its same-store sales declined by 1% for the quarter. The division opened 512 gross new restaurants during the quarter. Lastly, Habit Burger Grill same-store sales remained flat.

David Gibbs, CEO, said: “2024 was marked with exceptional core operating profit growth given the complex consumer environment. 2024 again demonstrates the resilience of our business model and the agility of our world-class teams.

“Our twin growth engines remain strong with Taco Bell US delivering same-store sales growth of 5% in the fourth quarter, meaningfully outpacing the industry, and KFC International delivering its second consecutive year with over 2,000 net new units. Our advantaged brand position, together with our industry-leading talent, franchisees, and technology, position us for another excellent year in 2025.”