Colonel Sanders: An Active Role in KFC Until the End

2023

Colonel Sanders, the founder of Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC), is a name that resonates with food lovers around the world. Born on September 9, 1890, Sanders had a fascinating journey that eventually led him to create one of the most iconic fast food chains in history. His story is filled with hardships, unique experiences, and of course, his famous secret recipe.

Before achieving success with KFC, Sanders held various jobs, from steam engine stoker to insurance salesman. However, it was during the Great Depression that he stumbled upon his true passion—cooking fried chicken. Sanders started selling his delectable chicken from a roadside restaurant in North Corbin, Kentucky. It was here that he developed his secret recipe and perfected his patented method of pressure frying chicken.

Recognizing the potential of franchising, Sanders opened the first KFC franchise in South Salt Lake, Utah, in 1952. The concept took off, and Sanders dedicated himself fully to expanding the franchise across the country. The rapid growth, however, became overwhelming for the Colonel, and in 1964, at the age of 73, he sold the company for $2 million.

Despite selling the company, Sanders remained the face of KFC as a brand ambassador. He traveled extensively, filmed commercials, and made appearances on behalf of the company. Sanders was known for his fiery personality and a strong opinion about the quality of KFC's food. In his later years, he became critical of the cost-cutting measures that he believed compromised the taste and quality of the food.

Sanders continued to play an active role in the company until his death in 1980 at the age of 90. His legacy, however, lives on. The KFC brand still embraces his name and image as symbols of the company. The fast-food chain has expanded globally, with thousands of locations in different countries, generating billions of dollars in sales each year.

Colonel Sanders' entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to his craft have left an indelible mark on the world of fast food. His secret recipe and pressure frying method revolutionized the way chicken was cooked and paved the way for the success of KFC. Today, his story serves as an inspiration to aspiring entrepreneurs and reminds us all that with determination and a little bit of spice, anything is possible.