KFC’s and McDonald’s experience robust demand for their chicken sandwiches

KFC is selling over twice the volume of its new chicken sandwich compared with past versions while McDonald’s franchisees are selling an average of 262 chicken sandwiches per day, which is better than their expectations.

Yum CEO David Gibbs said that customers are more frequently returning to KFC restaurants to buy the sandwich, which became available nationwide at the end of February.

Gibbs noted that demand for the new sandwich has been so strong that they have to deal with the general tightening of domestic chicken supply and in keeping up with that demand.

KFC, McDonald’s, Popeyes, and Chick-fil-A all use a breaded filet, brioche bun, and pickles. The difference between brands is the breading and frying method, which affects texture and flavor.

The success of McDonald’s Crispy Chicken Sandwich may be contributing to the tight chicken supply mentioned, as the company holds a 30 percent market share in the fast-food sector, and it influences commodity prices.