Collins Foods (ASX:CKF) has announced a refreshed strategic direction and key leadership changes following a company-wide review under new CEO Xavier Simonet.
Australia remains the company's core growth market, with plans to continue expanding KFC restaurants through its development agreement with Yum! Brands.
Emphasis will be placed on enhancing digital engagement, product innovation, and cost management to fuel sales and profit growth.
In Europe, Collins Foods has signed a binding agreement with Yum! to accelerate expansion in Germany, targeting 40–70 new KFC locations over five years.
The company secured exclusivity in North Rhine-Westphalia and Baden-Württemberg—regions representing 35% of Germany's population—and is exploring acquisitions to support scale.
In contrast, challenges in the Netherlands prompted a realignment strategy.
Collins Foods will optimise its existing restaurant portfolio, focus on operational improvements, and slow development amid economic headwinds.
A non-cash impairment of €14 million ($25.1 million)–€18 million ($32.3 million) is anticipated in FY25.
The company also announced plans to exit the Taco Bell business, with discussions underway to transition operations to new ownership within the next year.
Leadership changes include the departure of Hans Miete as CEO – Europe, replaced in an acting capacity by Chris Johnson.
In Australia, Helen Moore departs as COO, with Krystal Zugno appointed as General Manager of Australian Operations.