IMC to sell 58.3% stake in KFC Brazil for US$35M

BRAZIL – Restaurant franchise operator IMC has announced the sale of a 58.3% stake in its KFC operations in Brazil for US$35 million, signaling a strategic shift in its portfolio.

International Meal Company (IMC) has entered into a binding agreement with Kentucky Foods Chile to establish a joint venture for the divestment of its KFC operations in Brazil.

The deal, valued at US$60 million, grants the new joint venture exclusive rights to operate the 230 KFC restaurants across the country.

This move is expected to strengthen KFC’s brand presence in Brazil while allowing IMC to reduce its debt burden.

However, despite the sale, IMC’s market capitalization remains below the valuation of its KFC operations, currently standing at approximately US$55 million.

The transaction aligns with broader restructuring efforts within KFC’s global operations and reflects a period of transformation for the brand worldwide.

As part of its corporate realignment, Yum! Brands announced in February 2025 that it will be relocating KFC’s US headquarters from Louisville, Kentucky, to Plano, Texas.

The move aims to consolidate KFC’s US corporate operations with its global teams, as well as the operations of Pizza Hut, which is also based in Plano.

According to Yum! Brands CEO David Gibbs, the relocation is designed to support sustainable growth, enhance customer service, and create a more unified corporate structure.

He emphasized that bringing employees together would strengthen the company’s culture and talent, positioning it for continued success.

The transition will take place over the next two years, with 100 corporate employees relocating between March and September 2025, followed by an additional 90 remote workers joining by August 2026.

Amid these structural changes, KFC has also expanded its menu with the introduction of the “Dunk It Bucket” in March 2025.

This new offering includes hand-breaded Original Recipe Tenders, Secret Recipe Fries, and Mashed Potato Poppers, all served with a selection of dipping sauces.

The Dunk It Bucket is available in two sizes: an individual portion priced at US$7 and a larger Double Dunk It Bucket for US$25, designed for sharing. Customers can also order Mashed Potato Poppers separately in a five-count portion accompanied by a side of warm gravy.

Sauce options include Buffalo Ranch, Classic Ranch, Comeback Sauce, Honey BBQ, Honey Mustard, Sticky Chicky Sweet and Sour Sauce, and Warm Gravy.

The Dunk It Bucket can be purchased in-store, via KFC’s website, or through the KFC app for delivery or Quick Pick-Up.

With significant changes in its corporate structure and continued menu innovation, KFC is positioning itself for expansion and long-term growth.

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