Innovation That Matters

The app encourages customer interaction | Photo source KFC Pocket Franchise

Restaurant chain creates 'pocket franchises' via WeChat

Retail

KFC China turned virtual franchises into a platform to engage new customers

Spotted: KFC China has created a virtual franchise system to engage customers and encourage people to order from the restaurant. Named the KFC pocket franchise, the digital interface gamifies the experience of eating out, aiming to win over new clients.

The KFC pocket franchise is not the only social commerce platform on the WeChat network. But KFC China, working with Accenture Interactive-Hocomm, has taken it further by creating a platform that encourages customer interaction.

The social media campaign and platform was born out a need to attract a younger audience to the fast-food chain. The WeChat mini programme allows anyone to own their own KFC franchise, and players can unlock new products and personalise the franchise’s storefront. The programme encourages people to “add sugar” to score points, which can be used to unlock more features. 

The point system inspires “sugar communities” on WeChat, helping players engage with the brand and interact with each other.  Digital franchise “managers” can also win real-money incentives to play, and when a digital customer buys something from a pocket franchise store on WeChat, the “manager” receives discounts at a physical KFC restaurant. 

The WeChat mini programme has caught on with younger clientele and has even developed a celebrity following.

Explore More: Retail Innovations

Website: kfcpocketfranchise.com

Contact: newsroom.accenture.com/pr-contacts

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