The first "next-gen" KFC on the West Coast is now open in Fresno on Herndon and Polk avenues. Photo by Ben Hensley

A familiar quick-service restaurant opened its automatic doors to Fresno customers at the end of 2022, and while the colors, signage and menu will be a familiar sight to hungry customers, the “next-gen” styling of the restaurant is the first of its kind on the West Coast.

Kentucky Fried Chicken’s 12th Fresno/Clovis location near Polk and Herndon avenues focuses on what is described as a “digital-forward design aesthetic,” intended to meet the increasing demand in online ordering, delivery options and drive-thru accessibility.

“In Next Generation KFCs, the exterior offers a modern take on the KFC signature white stripes,” said a representative from the company. “It also has an integrated Quick Pick-Up area for online orders with direct access from the kitchen to expedite order fulfillment.”

 

There is also additional parking and signage geared toward expediting orders placed for delivery services.

The design was influenced by evolving trends in the quick service industry, reflecting more customers’ interest in mobile ordering. Next-Gen style restaurants are typically smaller than other KFC locations, featuring 10 to 30 seats as well as more countertop seating.

According to the company, KFC’s digital sales in the US grew 70% in 2021.

The first next-gen KFC restaurant opened at the end of 2021 in Berea, Kentucky. Since then, the company has opened next-gen restaurants in Indiana, California, Florida, New York, Tennessee, Texas, Michigan, Arizona, New Jersey, Maryland, Massachusetts, Mississippi and Minnesota.

There is no current plan to remodel existing restaurants into next-gen style restaurants, but the company is considering utilizing the next-gen style as a model for future restaurants.

Feedback from the new style of restaurant has been very positive according to the company.