KFC invests millions in drive-thru-only restaurants

Quick service restaurant KFC announced last week it is investing $1.5 million in a “completely new concept for the fast-food industry” – a first of its kind drive-thru-only restaurant.

Located in Newcastle, NSW, the store will feature five lanes and will utilize new technology to improve efficiency and speed in order from the on-site kitchen.

Customers will be able to order and pay via the KFC app or website before arriving at the restaurant, and they will receive a four digit code to enter on a touchscreen receiver when they pull up to concept store, which sends the order to be prepared.

Construction started in late June, and the restaurant is set to open in early November. The company said it potentially will roll out more drive-thru-only locations across Australia.

“Drive-Thru Only is the latest example of KFC’s commitment to innovation, and to giving Aussies the most delicious and fresh chicken possible,” KFC Australia’s chief marketing officer Kristi Woolrych said.

“We’re dedicated to continually building on our customer offering, that we’re always providing delicious and fresh meals, in the most convenient way to meet their busy lifestyles.”

The store was conceptualized after KFC saw its e-commerce offering surge in popularity, with online ordering growing 100 per cent year on year for the last five years straight.