Community
22 November, 2024
Second KFC for Warrnambool
WARRNAMBOOL will soon have its second KFC store.
![Gateway Plaza’s Sarah Porter and director of The Bird Group, Craig Williams, at the site of what will soon be Warrnambool’s second KFC store.](https://warrnamboolweekly-4634.kxcdn.com/img/containers/assets/news/kfc-at-gateway.jpg/1b5ec4dcc8ed4e87054f31774c78cfe5.jpg)
A 1200 square metre site at Gateway Plaza will soon become a hive of activity as preparations begin for the construction of the new Kentucky Fried Chicken store.
According to Craig Williams, director of The Bird Group, site preparations are already underway, with building works set to commence early to mid-January.
“If all goes to plan, we’re hoping the store will open to customers in mid to late July of next year,” Mr Williams said.
The Bird Group currently operates the existing Warrnambool store on Raglan Parade, along with stores in Ararat, Hamilton, Horsham, Maryborough, Portland and two in Mt Gambier.
“We have appointed Locks Construction in Horsham for this build and we’re looking forward to seeing work commence on-site,” Mr Williams said.
It is anticipated that up to 60 new jobs will be created with the store’s opening, providing full-time, part-time and casual positions both in-store and as delivery drivers.
“This (second Warrnambool store) has really been a long-time coming and we’re thrilled to finally have some progress here.
“We have been looking for an appropriate second site for several years now; we’ve watched the town grow and we’ve listened to customer feedback.
“We’re aware of some of the problems down on Raglan Parade in terms of vehicle access and customer parking so this new site, we believe, will alleviate any concerns out here.
“This area (at the Plaza) is the perfect fit for us and the perfect fit for our customers.”
Gateway Plaza manager Sarah Porter said she too was excited to see development start on-site.
“From the feedback I’ve had so far, residents out here are looking forward to KFC opening at this location,” she said.
“It just adds another level to the variety of businesses we have and to the experience our shoppers can enjoy.”