KBP Brands, the Kansas-based franchise that owns 847 KFC restaurants, has expanded its biscuit trial beyond its original four markets. According to the Kansas City Business Journal, the challenge, which began in late 2022, exceeded expectations.
A corporate spokesperson for KFC, KBP, recently began offering the limited-time menu item only at additional restaurants. Those locations were not disclosed, though Tonya Mangles, KBP's director of marketing activation, said on LinkedIn that they have expanded to all KFC franchisees and that customer feedback and sales results have exceeded expectations.
The toasted funnel cake reflects the flavor and texture of a carnival-inspired funnel cake, with a crispy exterior, juicy interior, and a dusting of powdered sugar. A KFC spokesperson said there were no plans for a nationwide rollout.
KBP's experiment follows other brands experimenting with funnel cake-inspired menu items. In June, Zaxby's Funnel Cakes start at $3.49 for dipping in powdered sugar and caramel sauce. In a statement, director of marketing and strategy Patrick Schwing said the company was "overwhelmed by the response."
Del Taco is bringing back the fried funnel cake later this month. The brand's chips sell for $1.99.
This particular delicacy is not new to the quick-service menu. For example, Del Taco's biscuits first appeared in 2014. Jack in the Box introduced mini biscuits in 2010 and Burger King in 2009. Checkers and Rally also introduced mushroom pies and fried mushroom pies.
For the KBP brand, innovation goes beyond the menu. In April, the company launched an SMS and mobile wallet digital marketing program in all 28 states following a successful trial in December.
In a statement last year, Mangels said, "As the largest KFC franchisee, KBP Brands is proud to support the pilot initiative to improve the customer experience."
Contact Alicia Kelso at [email protected].
