KFC, or Kentucky Fried Chicken, is the largest fast-food chicken operator in the world. Founded by Colonel Harland Sanders in 1930, the company began selling Southern fried chicken from a roadside restaurant in Corbin, Kentucky. The first franchise opened in 1952, and KFC quickly grew to become a major player in the fast-food industry, with over 600 locations in the U.S. and Canada by 1963. KFC is known for its signature fried chicken, featuring a secret blend of 11 herbs and spices. The brand introduced the iconic KFC bucket in 1957, which has become a symbol of its offerings. KFC has expanded globally, with its first UK location opening in 1965 and becoming the first Western restaurant chain in China in 1987. Today, KFC is a wholly owned subsidiary of Yum! Brands and continues to innovate its menu while maintaining its strong brand identity, largely associated with Colonel Sanders' image.