Who owns Crown Fried Chicken? This question has intrigued many fans of the fast-food chain, as it continues to gain popularity across the globe. Crown Fried Chicken, known for its delicious chicken buckets and mouth-watering sides, has a rich history that has seen it evolve from a small local restaurant to an international brand. In this article, we will delve into the fascinating journey of Crown Fried Chicken and uncover the mystery behind its ownership.
Crown Fried Chicken was founded in 1946 by Pete Harman in Lubbock, Texas. The original restaurant, which was a mere 12 feet by 30 feet, became an instant hit among locals, thanks to Harman’s secret recipe and commitment to quality. As the demand for his delicious chicken grew, Harman decided to expand his business, and Crown Fried Chicken began to spread its wings across the United States.
The chain’s growth was not without its challenges. In the 1950s, Harman faced competition from the rapidly expanding McDonald’s and Burger King. Despite the competition, Crown Fried Chicken managed to carve out a niche for itself in the fast-food industry. Its unique blend of flavors and commitment to customer satisfaction helped it maintain its loyal following.
In 1971, Harman sold the company to the Pillsbury Company, a leading food manufacturer at the time. This new ownership marked the beginning of a new era for Crown Fried Chicken. Under Pillsbury’s stewardship, the chain continued to expand, with new locations popping up in various states across the country.
In 2004, ConAgra Foods acquired Pillsbury, which included Crown Fried Chicken. ConAgra Foods, a Fortune 100 company, was a major player in the food industry, and their acquisition of Crown Fried Chicken was seen as a strategic move to diversify their portfolio. During this time, the chain experienced significant growth, both in terms of sales and expansion.
However, in 2014, ConAgra Foods decided to sell off several of its brands, including Crown Fried Chicken. The company was purchased by Restaurant Brands International (RBI), a Canadian-based fast-food holding company that already owned popular chains like Burger King and Tim Hortons. This acquisition marked a new chapter in the history of Crown Fried Chicken, as RBI brought its expertise in global expansion to the table.
Under RBI’s ownership, Crown Fried Chicken has continued to expand its presence internationally. The company has entered new markets, such as the Middle East and Southeast Asia, and has even launched a line of gluten-free products to cater to a wider audience. RBI’s investment in technology and marketing has also helped Crown Fried Chicken maintain its competitive edge in the fast-food industry.
In conclusion, the answer to the question “Who owns Crown Fried Chicken?” is Restaurant Brands International. The chain’s journey from a small Texas restaurant to an international brand is a testament to its unique flavors, commitment to quality, and the strategic decisions made by its owners over the years. As Crown Fried Chicken continues to grow, one thing is certain: its delicious chicken buckets and sides will continue to delight customers around the world.
