KFC France announced that as of January 21, 2026, 24 of its 404 restaurants in the country will offer only halal-certified meat. The decision affects about 6% of the network and is a response to growing demand in regions with large Muslim populations – the company said in an official statement.
The American KFC chain is introducing halal-only restaurants in France. As of January 21, 2026, 24 outlets (about 6% of the entire network of 404 locations) will serve only halal-certified chicken. As KFC France explained in statements to Le Figaro and Le Parisien, the decision stems from market analysis and the “growing demand from some customers.”
The company emphasizes that it wants to “accompany the evolution of the market” and “attract as many consumers as possible,” while promoting the values of “diversity and inclusiveness.” “Our goal is to bring as many people as possible to our tables, while respecting everyone’s choices and diversity,” the statement reads.
KFC recalls that in recent years it has expanded its menu to include fish and vegetarian dishes. In halal locations, only products from suppliers holding halal certification will be used. Customers will be able to easily recognize these restaurants thanks to special signage in the outlets, on the website, and in the mobile app. The full list of 24 addresses will be published at the end of January.
According to unofficial information, the changes will affect, among others, the areas around Maubeuge, Lille-Roubaix, Tourcoing, and Perpignan – regions with a high concentration of Muslim residents. KFC notes that this is a local and limited decision – the vast majority of restaurants in France will continue to offer the standard menu with non-halal meat.
Similar steps have already been taken by other fast-food chains in France: Quick has operated numerous fully halal locations since 2021, Five Guys has recently converted several of its restaurants to halal-only options, and Popeyes is also applying such a strategy at selected outlets. These changes reflect the adaptation of major international brands to the changing demographic structure of large European cities, especially in regions with significant Muslim populations.
Halal meat is meat obtained from animals slaughtered in accordance with the principles of Islamic law. The word “halal” in Arabic means “permissible” or “allowed,” in contrast to “haram” – meaning forbidden.