MARKET WIRE NEWS

KFC® Brings Back the Fan-Favorite Twister* and Launches New $20 Customizable Bucket**

MWN-AI** Summary

KFC® is reigniting its menu excitement with the highly anticipated return of the fan-favorite Twister* and the introduction of the new $20 Build a Bucket**. This move comes as part of KFC's strategy to cater to various dining occasions, whether it's for individuals or gatherings.

The Twister, back by popular demand, features two crispy Original Recipe® Tenders wrapped in a warm tortilla with fresh lettuce, diced tomatoes, and KFC’s signature Pepper Mayo. Enhancements have been made to the classic recipe, allowing for customization with options like the Twister Bacon, which includes hickory-smoked bacon. Customers can also spice things up by adding Zinger Sauce for an extra kick, making it a perfect meal for on-the-go appetites.

Complementing the Twister is the $20 Build a Bucket, designed for shareable dining without sacrificing choice. Customers can select either 8 pieces of Chicken on the Bone or 8 Original Recipe® Tenders, alongside four individual sides, four buttery biscuits, and sauces. This offering is ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings, simplifying decisions and promoting communal dining experiences.

Melissa Cash, Chief Marketing Officer of KFC U.S., emphasizes that in the current market, true value transcends mere pricing. The brand aims to provide both satisfaction and variety, ensuring meals are enjoyable whether for a solo occasion or family gathering.

By reintroducing beloved items and launching flexible options tailored to today’s lifestyle, KFC continues to evolve its menu while holding true to its Original Recipe® heritage. As they remain committed to meeting customer demands for convenience and personalization, KFC's new offerings signal growth and innovation within the quick-service restaurant sector.

*Prices and participation may vary; offer available while supplies last. **Prices may be higher in certain areas.

MWN-AI** Analysis

KFC's recent introduction of the Twister and the $20 Build a Bucket presents exciting opportunities for potential investors and market analysts alike. By strategically leveraging nostalgia and customization, KFC is tapping into current consumer preferences that favor both familiar comfort foods and adaptable dining experiences.

The reintroduction of the Twister aligns with a trend observed in the fast-food sector: consumers often seek meals that combine convenience with quality. The Twister's option to customize with bacon or Zinger Sauce enhances its appeal, allowing it to cater to a wider audience. This not only boosts sales from single-item purchases but also positions KFC as a competitor in the growing segment of gourmet fast-casual options.

Similarly, the $20 Build a Bucket addresses the rising demand for family-style meals, particularly in a post-pandemic environment where shared dining has made a comeback. By enabling customization, KFC is effectively inviting consumers to create a personalized dining experience. This flexibility may drive larger orders, increase average ticket size, and ultimately improve overall profit margins.

From a market standpoint, these offerings can be viewed as a response to heightened competition within the fast-food sector, where value and satisfaction are paramount. KFC’s initiative reflects a savvy understanding of its target demographic, appealing to both individual diners and families. With strategic marketing and promotion surrounding these offerings, KFC is likely to enhance customer loyalty and boost brand engagement.

Investors should monitor how well KFC implements and advertises these products in the coming months. A successful rollout could lead to increased foot traffic and digital orders, directly affecting Yum! Brands, Inc. (NYSE: YUM). Therefore, it may be prudent to keep an eye on KFC’s sales reports and consumer feedback for insights on its market impact moving forward.

**MWN-AI Summary and Analysis is based on asking OpenAI to summarize and analyze this news release.

Source: PR Newswire

PR Newswire

A nostalgic classic returns for a limited time, alongside a new option to bring everyone to the table

PLANO, Texas, Feb. 24, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- KFC® is expanding how guests can order across occasions with the return of the Twister and the debut of the $20 Build a Bucket, a new bundle designed for sharing and variety. Together, the two offerings make it easier to enjoy KFC whether you're grabbing something for yourself or feeding a crowd. 

"In today's market, value can't just mean price, and portability can't come at the expense of satisfaction," said Melissa Cash, Chief Marketing Officer, KFC U.S. "We brought back the original Twister fans love as a wrap that stands on its own, now with even more ways to customize it, including a bacon option. And for those moments meant to be shared, we designed the $20 Build a Bucket to deliver generous portions with built-in flexibility. It's about delivering real abundance and real choice for solo meals and shared tables alike, without compromising on value."

The Return of the Twister

Back on the menu by popular demand, the Twister features two crispy Original Recipe® Tenders layered with fresh lettuce, diced tomato and KFC's signature Pepper Mayo inside a warm tortilla. Reintroduced with a more substantial build, it returns as a wrap meant to satisfy as the main event, not just a side.

Available in two builds:

  • Twister Classic: Two crispy Original Recipe® Tenders with lettuce, tomato and Pepper Mayo.
  • Twister Bacon: Two crispy Original Recipe® Tenders topped with hickory-smoked bacon, lettuce, tomato and Pepper Mayo.

For those who like heat, fans can add Zinger Sauce for an extra kick. Whether it's a commute, a lunch break or a late-night run, the Twister offers portability with a filling punch.

Introducing the $20 Build a Bucket: The Bundle That Proves Sharing Doesn't Mean Compromise

When dinner turns into a debate, the $20 Build a Bucket is KFC's answer. The customizable meal is designed to simplify ordering for the table while still giving everyone a say.

  • 8 pieces of Chicken on the Bone or 8 Original Recipe® Tenders
  • 4 individual sides (your pick)
  • 4 buttery, flaky biscuits
  • 4 sauces (with Tenders)

From busy weeknights to last-minute gatherings, this shareable option takes the guesswork out of mealtime and puts the focus back on enjoying time together.

Built for Today, Rooted in Original Recipe®
Both the Twister and the $20 Build a Bucket reflect KFC's focus on meeting guests where they are, with portable options that satisfy and customizable dinners that deliver real value. Together, they mark the latest step in KFC's ongoing evolution, as the brand continues to modernize its menu while staying true to its Original Recipe® roots.

* Prices and participation may vary. Offer available while supplies last.
**Prices and participation may vary. Prices higher in AK, HI, CA and third-party ordering websites. Tax, tip and fees extra. Offer includes choice of 8pc dark meat chicken on the bone OR 8pc tenders with 4 sauces, 4 ind. sides and 4 biscuits. Extra charge for breast pc. substitution.

About KFC
KFC Corporation, based in Plano, TX., has been serving up Finger Lickin' Good Original Recipe® fried chicken since 1952, including chicken on the bone, nuggets and tenders. Beyond the top secret 11 herbs & spices, KFC specialties include the KFC Chicken Sandwich, Extra Crispy™ chicken, KFC Famous Bowls®, Pot Pies, Secret Recipe Fries, biscuits and homestyle sides. There are over 30,000 KFC restaurants in 150 countries and territories around the world. KFC Corporation is a subsidiary of Yum! Brands, Inc., Louisville, Ky. (NYSE: YUM). For more information, visit www.kfc.com. Follow KFC on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and TikTok.

Media Contact:
kfcusmedia@yum.com

SOURCE Kentucky Fried Chicken

FAQ**

How might the return of the Twister and the launch of the $20 Build a Bucket impact KFC's sales performance in the U.S. and potentially benefit its parent company, Yum China Holdings Inc. YUMC?

The return of the Twister and the $20 Build a Bucket could boost KFC's U.S. sales by attracting value-seeking customers and enhancing menu variety, thereby potentially increasing revenue and profits for Yum China Holdings Inc. (YUMC).

What strategies is KFC using to attract nostalgia-driven customers with the Twister, and how could this influence brand loyalty in relation to Yum China Holdings Inc. YUMC?

KFC is leveraging nostalgia by reintroducing the iconic Twister, tapping into fond childhood memories, which may enhance brand loyalty among older customers while reinforcing Yum China Holdings Inc.'s connection to heritage and tradition in the fast-food market.

Given the focus on customization in the new offerings, how does KFC plan to gather consumer feedback to further adapt their menu, and what role will Yum China Holdings Inc. YUMC play in this process?

KFC plans to utilize surveys, social media engagement, and in-store feedback mechanisms to gather consumer insights for menu adaptation, with Yum China Holdings Inc. YUMC facilitating data analysis and strategic decision-making based on these insights.

What marketing strategies will KFC implement to promote the Twister and Build a Bucket, and how could successful campaigns impact the financial outlook for Yum China Holdings Inc. YUMC?

KFC will likely leverage digital marketing, social media engagement, and localized promotions for the Twister and Build a Bucket, potentially driving significant sales growth that would enhance Yum China Holdings Inc.'s financial outlook through increased revenue and market share.

**MWN-AI FAQ is based on asking OpenAI questions about Yum China Holdings Inc. (NYSE: YUMC).

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