KFC Canada is changing how it operates in Ontario, but it might be biting off more than it can chew.
Starting May 15, 2024, the fried chicken giant will serve only Halal-certified chicken and ditch pork products in most Ontario locations.
This move aims to cater to the Muslim community, but it’s raising eyebrows among market watchers and customers alike.
Let’s break down the numbers: Muslims make up about 6.72% of Ontario’s population, while Christians account for 52.1%.
KFC’s strategy to focus on a niche market while potentially alienating the majority is a high-stakes play that could ruffle some feathers.
Brigitte Gabriel, a prominent activist, didn’t mince words about the change.
She said, “KFC in Canada is requiring all their Ontario stores to serve Halal chicken exclusively. They are also discontinuing pork products. Truly insane times.”
KFC in Canada is requiring all of their Ontario stores to serve Halal chicken exclusively.
They are also discontinuing pork products.
Truly insane times.
I have been warning the West about this for a long time. pic.twitter.com/Ae66Gai6TZ
— Brigitte Gabriel (@ACTBrigitte) July 7, 2024
KFC isn’t the first to try this recipe. Earls Steakhouse previously attempted a similar move, switching to Halal beef.
The result? A serving of customer backlash with a side of plummeting sales.
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As one observer noted, “After watching his business dive 30 to 40%, he brought back Canadian beef.”
Earls’ president, Mo Jessa, had to eat humble pie, admitting, “I learned something from this whole process and it was a good lesson.”
From a financial perspective, this move looks risky.
By catering exclusively to a small segment of the market, KFC might be serving up disappointment to its broader customer base.
The potential loss of non-Halal preferring customers could take a big bite out of KFC’s profits in Ontario.
Since KFC Canada is now requiring all of their Ontario stores to serve Halal chicken exclusively.
It's important to talk about the Halal industry and its ties to terrorism.
Here are the facts. pic.twitter.com/4hFy47O21N
— Brigitte Gabriel (@ACTBrigitte) July 7, 2024
Moreover, imposing religious dietary practices on a largely secular customer base might leave a bad taste in many mouths.
It’s not just about the chicken; it’s about consumer choice and market understanding.
In the end, KFC’s Halal-only move in Ontario seems more like a risky bet than a well-calculated business decision.
While diversity is important, alienating your core customer base is a dangerous game in the competitive fast-food market.
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