KFC Introduces Packaging Fee Amid Pandemic, Sparks Mixed Reactions in China
In a move that has sparked mixed reactions among Chinese customers, fast-food giant KFC has announced that it will begin charging a packaging fee for its deliveries. The change, which comes into effect on February 20th, sees the company cut its delivery fee from 9 yuan ($1.40) to 6 yuan ($0.93), while simultaneously introducing a "packaging service fee."
20 February 2024
The announcement, originally made on China's popular social media platform, Weibo, has been met with both understanding and discontent from KFC's loyal fans. The decision to charge for packaging comes after the company reportedly began trialing the policy in some of its locations in China already.
KFC's official customer service indicated that the new policy is a response to the ongoing pandemic, as well as a way to improve the quality of its packaging. "To ensure the safety of our customers' orders, we have upgraded our packaging and added a dedicated packing service," a representative said.
However, not all customers are happy with the new policy. Many have taken to Weibo to express their displeasure, with some accusing the company of taking advantage of customers during a time when people are more reliant on delivery services than ever before.
One user wrote, "The delivery fee is already high, and now they want to charge a packaging fee too? This is just taking advantage of people during a pandemic."
Another user asked, "Why can't they just reduce the price of the food? Why do we have to pay for packaging too?"
Some customers have even threatened to switch to rival brands like McDonald's or Burger King, which do not currently charge for packaging.
The introduction of a packaging fee is not the first time that KFC has faced controversy in China. Last month, the company was thrust into the spotlight when a customer claimed to have found raw meat in their chicken bites. The incident sparked widespread concern and debate among Weibo users, with many questioning the safety of KFC's food and the handling of the issue.
Despite the negative reaction from some customers, others have expressed understanding and support for KFC's decision to charge for packaging.
One user noted, "It makes sense that they would need to charge for packaging, given the ongoing pandemic and the need for extra safety measures."
Another user wrote, "I don't mind paying a little extra for packaging if it means that my food is safer and arrives in better condition."
As the debate continues to unfold on Weibo, it remains to be seen whether KFC's introduction of a packaging fee will have a lasting impact on the company's popularity and sales in China. In the meantime, customers will have to decide whether the convenience of KFC's delivery service is worth the added cost of packaging.
Overall, KFC's decision to charge for packaging has been met with a mixed response from customers in China. While some have expressed discontent and even threatened to switch to rival brands, others have expressed understanding and support for the company's decision. As the debate continues to unfold on Weibo, it remains to be seen whether KFC's introduction of a packaging fee will have a lasting impact on the company's popularity and sales in China.