By COLE REIF
Great Bend Post
Throwing an anniversary party went on the backburner for the local Kentucky Fried Chicken restaurant while dealing with the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, but KFC is celebrating their 50th anniversary of doing business in Great Bend.
Manager Dave Storjohann discussed KFC’s background on this week’s Great Bend Chamber coffee hour and mentioned a customer told him the founder Colonel Sanders was at the Great Bend store when it opened in 1970.
"We are known throughout the world," said Storjohann. "We have a lot of great history."
The dining room is not currently open at KFC and Storjohann
says there is no definitive answer as to when that might be happening.
"We have a strong footprint in China which is part of the reason why we have been proactive with what is happening with COVID-19," said Storjohann. "We already have an idea of what has gone on with the stores in China, so we do not want to be part of a flare-up."
Storjohann noted business has been fine at KFC as they are catered nicely like
many restaurants with a drive-up option. KFC was deliberate in promoting food
options throughout the coronavirus crisis that would encourage families to stay
in their homes.
"We did our $30 fill-ups with the premise to not only have chicken for tonight but to have chicken left over for tomorrow. $20 fill-ups are still here too."
KFC also started a campaign company-wide to provide one million pieces of chicken to feed communities across the United States and support organizations in need during the pandemic. The Great Bend KFC donated chicken to the Senior Center and Dream Center.
When KFC does reopen its dining area, half the tables will be available, hand
sanitizer stations will be set up, all self-serve items will be provided by
staff, patrons will get a new cup for refills and the buffet will not be
available.
The Great Bend KFC usually employs approximately 20 workers. Storjohann says he
is still looking to hire a few more employees including a new position once they reopen.
A guest safety team member will be hired to disinfect tables, bathrooms and
doors every time a customer leaves.