KFC is rallying its fans back this summer with a bold new campaign titled the “Kentucky Fried Comeback.” The chain is offering a free bucket of its Original Recipe fried chicken—or chicken tenders—with any $15+ purchase made through the KFC app or website, exclusively for members of its rewards program.
Catherine Tan‑Gillespie, President of KFC U.S., said the promotion reflects the company’s renewed emphasis on listening to consumer feedback. “By listening to our customers and addressing feedback, we’ll reclaim our rightful place in the fried chicken game we started. Come back and give us a shot—your first bucket’s on us,” she stated.
Fresh Flavors & Bold Colonel
As part of the campaign, KFC has introduced Kentucky Fried Pickles—dill pickle slices coated in its signature breading and fried, available alongside complimentary Comeback or ranch dipping sauces. These join the returning favorites, including the $7 Fill Up meal deal.
In a marketing shift, Colonel Sanders has taken on a more serious expression in new signage and ads—a signal that KFC is treating its comeback effort with musical theater‑worthy intensity. “The Colonel would not be happy about our market share… we’re serious about reminding America exactly who we are,” Tan‑Gillespie said.
A Competitive Fight
This push comes in response to increased competition from rivals like Popeyes, Chick‑fil‑A, Dave’s Hot Chicken, Zaxby’s, and Jollibee. Despite its legacy, KFC recently ranked 18th in Yelp’s chicken sandwich listings. Sales data from Yum! Brands indicated a 1 % dip in U.S. same-store sales in Q1, even as international locations rose 3 %…