KFC restaurants in Rockford area abruptly close, leave note thanking customers
By Kevin Haas
Rock River Current
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ROCKFORD — KFC restaurants in the Rockford area abruptly closed on Monday, leaving a note to customers on entrances and drive-thru windows.
The KFCs at 1502 Kilburn Ave. and 3035 S. 11th St. in Rockford, as well as the locations at 1586 W. Lane Road in Machesney Park and 1160 N. State St. in Belvidere have all closed with the same note taped to the exterior of the building.
“We wanted to take a moment to express our heartfelt gratitude for your loyal support over the years. It is with mixed emotions that we announce the closure of our store,” the sign reads at the Kilburn, West Lane Road and 11th Street locations. “We understand this news may come as a surprise, but we feel it is the right decision for us at this time.
“We want to thank each and every one of you for your continued patience and understanding during this transition period. Your support has meant the world to us, and we are truly grateful for all the memories we have shared with you.”
The KFC in Belvidere initially had a note Tuesday morning on its door directing customers to the Machesney Park location. Belvidere city officials said it had reopened in the afternoon. However, it was closed later Tuesday afternoon and the same note that was placed on the other locations was on its doors as well.
The local closures were among several across Illinois on Monday. Four KFCs also closed in the central Illinois cities of Peoria, Pekin, Washington and Bartonville, according to WMBD-TV.
“We can confirm that some KFC locations in the area have closed,” KFC’s parent company, Yum! Brands, said in a statement to WMBD. “The decision to close a restaurant is always difficult for both the franchisee and the brand. We appreciate the patronage of our loyal guests.”
No reason for the closure was given by the company. Attempts to reach the franchisee by phone were not successful.
Property records show the Winnebago County KFC franchises are tied to Irving, Texas-based EYM Chicken, which operates KFCs in Illinois, Wisconsin and Indiana.
The Belvidere location is owned by a limited liability company out of Bloomfield Hills, Michigan.
This article is by Kevin Haas. Email him at khaas@rockrivercurrent.com or follow him on X at @KevinMHaas or Instagram @thekevinhaas and Threads @thekevinhaas
