Yum Brands Stock Price, News & Analysis

The KFC Double Down is returning on March 6, 2023, after nearly a decade, for a limited four-week run. This cult favorite features two Extra Crispy white meat filets, cheese, and bacon, served without a bun. KFC has also introduced a new Bacon & Cheese Chicken Sandwich, made with a double-breaded filet, cheese, and bacon on a toasted brioche bun. KFC will host a special 'Double Down Drop' on March 5 for select fans to taste the sandwich early. This menu revival comes in response to years of customer demand, with more than 10 million Double Downs sold in its first month back in 2010.

Yum! Brands celebrates Black History Month by highlighting the journey of Kedibone Patricia Malatji Lebethe, CEO of KFC South Africa's KPML Group of Companies. Starting in 1986 as a cashier, she progressed through management to become a franchise owner, growing her portfolio to 29 restaurants with over 1,000 employees. Emphasizing a strong team culture, she believes the key to KFC's success lies in recognizing and training staff. Looking ahead, she is inspired by the brand's adaptability and innovation in response to market changes, ensuring KFC remains a vibrant player in the fast-food industry.

Yum! Brands highlights the growth and community engagement of its franchisee, Tasty Hut LLC, which operates over 220 Pizza Hut locations across 11 states. The franchise began in 1959, and today, Pizza Hut operates more than 18,000 restaurants in over 100 countries. Tasty Hut focuses on delivering great customer experiences through its 'Hut Family Values' and aims to expand by remodeling and opening new locations. Recent initiatives include leveraging new technologies, community support initiatives like Ukraine fundraisers, and a commitment to enhancing guest experiences, all while maintaining operational excellence.

KFC Foundation has partnered with Western Governors University (WGU) to provide 100% paid tuition for KFC restaurant employees seeking degrees. The initiative covers over 60 programs across various fields, including Business and Healthcare. This non-competitive program allows employees to enroll anytime and starts from day one of employment. Additionally, the KFC Foundation offers up to $20,000 in educational grants. This partnership aims to enhance career growth and support KFC employees, helping them balance work and education while fostering community development.

Yum! Brands reported its fourth-quarter and full-year results for 2022, revealing a GAAP EPS of $1.29 (up 17%) and a full-year GAAP EPS of $4.57 (down 12%). Excluding special items, fourth-quarter EPS was $1.31 (up 29%) and full-year EPS was $4.51 (up 1%). The company achieved a record 4,560 gross new unit openings and system sales growth of 8% for Q4, driven by Taco Bell and KFC. However, profit margins suffered from foreign currency translations, with $42 million lost in Q4. As a result of exiting Russia, overall performance metrics were negatively adjusted. The quarterly dividend increased to $0.605, reflecting ongoing shareholder value.

Taco Bell Canada announces the return of its popular Mexican Pizza, available for a limited time starting February 6. Fans can get early access from February 3 at select locations through the Taco Bell Canada App. The Mexican Pizza features seasoned beef or refried beans between crispy tortilla shells, topped with sauce, tomatoes, and a three-cheese blend. It will be sold a-la-carte or as part of a combo meal. The promotion runs until April 2 or until supplies last. Rohit Sharma, Senior Marketing Manager, emphasized their commitment to customer feedback in bringing back this fan-favorite item.