KFC: Back in the Fryer

After 14 years of trying to downplay the image of greasy, fried chicken, KFC is returning to its roots. It recently opened a new restaurant in its hometown of Louisville, Kentucky, called "Kentucky Fried Chicken," instead of the "KFC" that is found on almost all the restuarants today.

KFC's sales have been negative or flat for over 16 straight months. It is still recovering from a failed attempt last year to promote healthier food in its restaurants. Sales in recent months have slightly improved, however, in part due to its new 99 cent Snacker chicken sandwich (which is amazing, by the way).

The new Kentucky Fried Chicken in Louisville is also equipped with a free digital jukebox, low set tables, and features a younger image of the founder, Colonel Sanders. This model will be used on 50 other restaurants, being remodeled in this new image. Kentucky Fried Chicken hopes to capitalize on its recent increase in sales.

It seems that after a relatively long period of weak sales and marginal profits, Kentucky Fried Chicken is moving in the right direction. Hopefully it can continue to ride this wave of success as it attempts to revitalize its image.