Eastbourne has two KFC restaurants, one on the industrial estate in Lottbridge Drove and the other in Langney Road in the town centre.
During our long wait to be served by the one member of serving staff (there were other staff, one was preparing and cooking whilst the other two just stood and stared), we chose our meal. The Snack Box looked inviting, with 1 Piece of Original Recipe Chicken, Mini Breast Chicken, Popcorn Chicken and 2 Hot Wings, all served with chips and a regular drink for £1.99.
After we had earned our way to the front of the queue (there were only two people in front of us but the member of staff was serving at a snail’s pace), we ordered our Snack Box. Totally astonished were we when we were asked which we would like with our chips?
After this descrepancy was explained, we made it clear what the poster had not – from the omittance of the word “or” in between each item, or the words “Choose between” at the beginning. Yes, the bargain included only one of the aforementioned items with chips, not all four. Immediately, this didn’t appear to be so appealing.
However, we continued with our order. Whilst we waited for the tricky order to be boxed up (1 Piece of Original Recipe Chicken with chips and Tea times two), we were more horrified by another member of staff clocking in for his shift as he walked through the shop whilst busily munching through a half-eaten sandwich as he crossed the threshold from the restaurant into the serving area. He not only didn’t stop to finish his half-eaten sandwich before entering the serving/preparation area, he also didn’t wash his hands, remove his coat or tidy his hair, instead stood busily finishing his sandwich whilst talking to the staff preparing the food.
It has to be noted that our visit to KFC was before the lunchtime rush and the restaurant area was only a quarter full with customers. We felt less that satisfied with our visit and hope that it was due to an oversight of staff rather than a habit that we have now to expect from our conveniently-placed eateries.
On checking the website at www.kfc.co.uk, the Snack Box is described as:
“With KFC’s new Snack Box you can now enjoy your favourite KFC chicken & chips, anytime and anywhere, without breaking the bank!
Choose from a small portion of Popcorn Chicken, two Hot Wings, one Mini Breast Fillet or one piece of Original Recipe Chicken; and then add a generous portion of fries; all for just £1.99!” – ah! that all important phrase: “Choose from …”
Normally speaking, KFC has to be one of my favourite fast food outlets which is why I felt so disappointed. However, not that I visit too often, it won’t stop me dropping in again sometime in the future.
Street address
Phone number
KFC’s website gives a thorough description of their brand, their services and franchise opportunities, as well as nutritional and allergy information, careers and charity commitments. All the details can be found at www.kfc.co.uk
