KFC franchise changes hands

OGONE TLHAGE

WINDHOEK



The Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC) franchise in Namibia is set to change hands and will be managed by Vivo Energy and Baobab Khulisani in a new joint venture to be known as Synergy Foods.

This new joint venture will manage and operate the KFC Namibia franchise, currently operated by Atlantic Chicken Company.

Completion of this transaction and related change of franchise owner is subject to legal agreements and regulatory approval.



Service stations

Synergy Foods said it planned to invest to grow the KFC business in Namibia, part of a move which includes adding restaurants at Shell service stations.

Edward Walugembe, managing director of Vivo Energy Namibia, said partnering with Boabab Khulisani made perfect sense for Vivo Energy.

“We understand that customers at our Shell branded service stations want more than just a fill-up of fuel when they come to our sites. In recent years, we have invested heavily in growing and developing our convenience retail business; including the addition of quick-service restaurants at our service stations.

“We have successfully added convenience and choice for our customers, so the introduction of KFC Namibia is a natural development,” he added.



Business plan

Grant Wheatley, managing director of Baobab Khulisani, added: “Our first priority is ensuring we consistently provide our customers with the great KFC experience we are proud of, driving improvements through our passion for customer service and serving the great quality products customers in Namibia know and love.”

All existing KFC Namibia employees will transfer to Synergy Foods, the new franchise holder. The KFC Namibia portfolio consists of 21 restaurants, seven of which are in the Windhoek area, with others spread around the country.