KFC: Exploring a Plant-Based Future

As part of our master's program, we developed a project to introduce plant-based menu options for KFC, aiming to grow their market share. By analyzing consumer trends in the UK, Turkey, and China, we created strategies to position these offerings as sustainable and culturally relevant additions to their menu.

Category:

Design Research

Design Research

Company:

KFC

KFC

Role:

UX Researcher

UX Researcher

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My Approach

Understanding Global Market Dynamics

We began by analyzing consumer trends and market data across three diverse regions—UK, Turkey, and China. Each location provided unique insights into cultural preferences, dietary trends, and the demand for plant-based alternatives. This research informed strategies to align KFC’s plant-based menu with regional consumer expectations.

Identifying KFC’s Competitive Edge

To ensure the success of plant-based offerings, we examined KFC’s brand identity and customer base. We identified opportunities to position the new menu items as a natural extension of KFC’s existing offerings, emphasizing taste, quality, and sustainability to resonate with both loyal customers and new demographics.

Designing the Consumer Experience

The project focused on creating an engaging customer journey, from awareness to purchase. We explored how to effectively introduce plant-based options through in-store promotions, digital marketing, and packaging. Our designs highlighted the benefits of plant-based choices while retaining KFC’s iconic branding to maintain familiarity.

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Collaborative Prototyping and Testing

Working collaboratively as a team, we developed prototypes for digital and physical touchpoints. These included app interfaces, point-of-sale materials, and advertising campaigns tailored to different markets. User testing helped us refine these elements to ensure they effectively communicated the value of the plant-based menu.

Promoting Sustainability and Inclusion

A key aspect of the project was integrating sustainability into the narrative. We designed messaging that underscored the environmental benefits of plant-based eating while ensuring the offerings appealed to diverse dietary needs, from vegetarians to flexitarians.

Strategizing for Long-Term Growth

Beyond the initial rollout, our approach included strategies for scaling the plant-based menu and measuring success through key performance indicators. This included recommendations for seasonal menus, community engagement, and leveraging data analytics to adapt to evolving consumer preferences.

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