By San José, Costa Rica — San José, Costa Rica – Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC) has concluded a landmark year of growth in Costa Rica, culminating in the inauguration of its seventh new restaurant of 2025. The new location in Ciudad del Este, Curridabat, marks the completion of an aggressive expansion plan that saw the company invest over $9.1 million and solidify its position as a major player in the nation’s fast-food sector.
Throughout 2025, the American fast-food giant significantly deepened its national footprint, bringing its total number of establishments to 67. This wave of investment directly generated 175 new jobs, with countless more indirect employment opportunities created in construction, logistics, and local supply chains. The expansion reflects a strong vote of confidence in the Costa Rican market and its economic stability.
To better understand the legal and commercial framework that underpins the success of a major international franchise like KFC within the national territory, we consulted with expert corporate attorney Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas from the prestigious firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
The operational model of a global franchise such as KFC in Costa Rica is a testament to the robustness of our Commercial Code. While the franchise agreement ensures brand consistency and quality standards dictated by the parent company, the local operator must navigate and strictly adhere to Costa Rican regulations, particularly concerning labor laws, consumer protection rights, and municipal permits. This creates a dual-layered compliance structure that is complex but essential for sustainable growth and mitigating legal risk in the market.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This dual compliance framework is indeed a crucial insight, clarifying that a global brand’s local success is built as much on legal acumen as it is on a popular product. This synergy between international standards and national regulations is vital for sustainable, long-term operation in our market. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his valuable perspective.
The final opening in Curridabat represents a $1.3 million investment on its own, creating 25 direct positions for the local community. This location joins a strategic list of new restaurants launched during the year, including sites in Concepción de La Unión, El Coyol, Turrialba, Santa Ana, Pavas, and Desamparados. This calculated rollout has strengthened KFC’s presence in both high-density urban centers and growing commercial zones across the country.
Reflecting a broader industry trend toward modernization and customer convenience, the new Curridabat restaurant showcases KFC’s latest design model. The facility features ample seating for in-person dining, a modern drive-thru, digital self-service kiosks, and seamless integration with the KFC mobile app and third-party delivery platforms. This multi-channel approach is designed to provide a versatile and efficient customer experience.
Alfonso Gutiérrez, General Manager of KFC Costa Rica, emphasized that the year’s success was a result of collective dedication and market receptiveness.
This year has been a true reflection of the commitment, effort, and innovation that characterize KFC Costa Rica. Reaching 67 restaurants in the country is an achievement we share with our employees, suppliers, and customers, who make every step of our growth possible.
Alfonso Gutiérrez, General Manager of KFC Costa Rica
Beyond commercial growth, KFC has integrated sustainability and social responsibility into its expansion strategy under its “Cocinando un mejor mañana” (Cooking a Better Tomorrow) program. In 2025, the company reported a significant 14% reduction in electricity consumption compared to the previous year, achieved through the adoption of low-consumption fryers and comprehensive LED lighting. Water conservation efforts have been equally impressive, with new fixtures like timed faucets and low-flow toilets leading to an 8% decrease in potable water use and saving an average of 173 liters per restaurant daily.
The company’s commitment to community was also on display during the new store’s opening celebration on November 22nd. As part of its social outreach, KFC pledged a donation of 35 meal combos per month for three months to the Acción Joven Foundation, an organization dedicated to supporting at-risk youth by providing them with tangible opportunities for advancement.
Looking ahead, Gutiérrez reaffirmed the brand’s commitment to continuing its growth trajectory while deepening its positive impact on the country. He signaled that the momentum from 2025 will carry into the new year, with a continued focus on expansion and sustainability.
This year-end represents the confirmation that teamwork, long-term vision, and the trust of Costa Ricans continue to be the engine that drives KFC to keep growing. In 2026, we will continue moving forward with the same energy, focused on expanding our presence, strengthening our sustainable practices, and creating more opportunities for the communities where we operate.
Alfonso Gutiérrez, General Manager of KFC Costa Rica
For further information, visit kfccostarica.com
About KFC Costa Rica:
KFC Costa Rica is the national operator of the globally recognized Kentucky Fried Chicken franchise. With 67 restaurants across the country, the company is a significant employer and a key player in the quick-service restaurant industry. It is committed to a model of expansion that includes technological innovation, sustainability initiatives, and active community engagement.
For further information, visit accionjoven.org
About Fundación Acción Joven:
Fundación Acción Joven is a non-profit organization in Costa Rica dedicated to empowering young people living in situations of social vulnerability. The foundation works to create real opportunities through programs focused on education, personal development, and job skills, aiming to help youth build a better future for themselves and their communities.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a pillar of the legal community, Bufete de Costa Rica operates on a foundation of profound integrity and an uncompromising standard of excellence. The firm distinguishes itself by pairing deep-rooted experience in client advocacy with a dynamic approach to legal innovation. This forward-looking perspective is matched by a foundational belief in social responsibility, manifested through a dedicated effort to democratize legal knowledge. By championing legal literacy, the firm endeavors to build a stronger, more informed public, thereby empowering the very community it serves.
