Digital Menu Boards & Drive-Thru

KFC UK

PROJECT START: 2011

VERTICAL: HOSPITALITY & QSR

SERVICE: Digital Menu Boards & Drive-Thru

The Challenge

Pioneer Group has a long-standing relationship with KFC (YUM) and has worked with them for over ten years. We have supported them on their digital signage journey and have supplied, installed, and maintained various digital signage concepts for them across their UK estate of over 1000+ stores, with the estate continuing to grow year on year.

Kit List

2023 - Over 1000 stores
5-8 Screen Multi-Displays
Dual Output Media Players
Bespoke Mounting Solutions
24hr Support Desk
Drive-Thru

The Approach

Pioneer began working with KFC in 2011, when the restaurant was still in the early stages of trialing digitalised menus, with initial proof of concept systems. By 2015, Pioneer Group had technologically equipped approximately 450 sites, before completing another 440 sites over a 3-4 month installation period – such was the demand. Recognising the increasing trend for takeaway and convenience, KFC has responded to customer needs by expanding its Drive-Thru service across stores. Maintaining consistency with in-store ordering, Pioneer Group were enlisted to conceptualise and install outdoor order-points which they have continued to do for many years

The Solution

Initially, Pioneer specified and configured compatible windows based PC players to run bespoke multi-day part, multi-menu software was key in the delivery of dynamic content to the displays. After a series of tests, we installed a series of ruggedized fan-less PCs immune to damage from the heat and residue of the kitchen environment. To provide a robust fail-over solution, our engineers cabled one player per screen with dual output, reducing the risk of content failure should one PC stop working.

Upon tests for visibility, brightness and viewing angles, we specified and installed 5-8 flat panel screens per store. These were mounted to the bulkhead behind the counter in a bespoke Digital Menu Board rail mounting system to ensure seamless integration and flawless alignment.

The result – was a flawless multi-menu board display to support a dynamic variety of content, ensuring customers are fully engaged with KFC promotions. Delivering the same level of customer experience to those ordering from their car, we replicated the same system outside but with high-brightness screens in portrait format. These are installed within an IP-rated housing unit for ultimate security and protection.

Fast forward to 2023, and the KFC estate has expanded to 1000 stores across the UK & Ireland, all of which have our Digital Menu Board Solution. We continue to be the audio-visual partner for KFC and have responsibility for all new and existing installations. To assist with day-to-day operations, we provide a 24-hour support desk for all stores.