In a statement, KFC said: “Our focus remains on ensuring our customers can enjoy our chicken without further disruption. With that in mind, the decision has been taken in conjunction with QSL and DHL to revert the distribution contract for up to 350 of our restaurants in the north of the UK back to Bidvest Logistics.
“We’ve been working hard to resolve the present situation with QSL and DHL. This decision will ease pressure at DHL’s Rugby depot, to help get our restaurants back to normal as quickly as possible.
‘97% open for business’
“As it stands, over 97% of our 900 restaurants are now open for business, although there will be some limited menus before we are back to business as usual.”
Bidvest issued a statement saying: “As the UK’s leading foodservice logistics specialist, Bidvest Logistics are delighted to confirm that they have signed a long-term agreement with KFC UK & Ireland to provide renewed supply to up to 350 of their restaurants in the north of the UK, from 26 March 2018.”
“We are delighted to welcome KFC back to Bidvest Logistics,” said Paul Whyte at Bidvest Logistics. “As the UK’s leading foodservice logistics specialist, we understand the complexities of delivering fresh chicken. KFC are a valued customer and we will provide them with a seamless return to our network.”
In a statement, DHL said: “We acknowledge KFC’s decision to invite Bidvest Logistics to service its 350 restaurants in the north of the UK. In conjunction with our partners, we remain fully committed to delivering excellent service to KFC‘s remaining 550 restaurants across the UK.”