Kuku Foods East Africa plans continued growth by leveraging local workforce, supply chain- CEO

EAST AFRICA – Kuku Foods East Africa, regional KFC franchisee, has revealed plans to sustain growth and address industry challenges by leveraging the local workforce and supply chain communities benefiting from socioeconomic growth, according to CEO Jacques Theunissen.

Kuku’s CEO emphasized that the company’s supply chain is crucial to its success, ensuring not only operational efficiency but also its ability to compete globally.

The company has appointed a Quality Assurance Manager to oversee every level of the supply chain, ensuring full compliance with international food standards, and that all suppliers undergo third-party audits.

Kuku’s suppliers serve multiple retail sectors, including supermarkets, which allows the company to influence food safety improvements that extend beyond its own customer base.

Despite challenges, such as rising input costs and market depreciation, the company has implemented a localized supplier strategy to mitigate the effects of currency devaluation.

The CEO mentioned that local suppliers have been vital during these challenging times, with Kuku partnering with them to address issues and maintain product accessibility for customers.

In response to industry challenges, Kuku has automated several systems to ensure quick, informed decision-making by providing accurate and reliable data.

The company’s innovative approach, combined with these advanced systems, has proven essential in navigating market unpredictabilities and managing its vast supply chain.

One example is Kuku’s Sales Overnight and Brand Overtime (SOBO) strategy, which helps the company remain relevant across all consumer sectors and enhances its accessibility and distinctiveness.

Kuku has also embraced technology, such as introducing self-service kiosks in 2023, making it the first quick-service restaurant (QSR) chain in Kenya to do so.

The company plans to continue expanding this technology. Additionally, home delivery services have become a key part of improving customer interactions and making KFC’s offerings more accessible.

Since launching its first restaurant in Junction Mall, Kenya, in 2011, Kuku has expanded significantly, now operating 55 KFC outlets across East Africa.

The company plans further expansion, driven by a workforce of over 1,300 employees, which the CEO credits for the company’s success.

Kuku’s success is also rooted in its heart-led culture, which focuses on passion for the brand, customers, and supporting regional industries through local supply chains.

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