Sphera Franchise Group, the largest food service group in Romania, continues expanding its KFC network by opening its first Drive Thru restaurant in the Bran area, an investment of approximately EUR 1 million. This opening aligns with the company’s strategy to accelerate development in 2026, with a total investment budget of EUR 24.84 million allocated this year for network expansion, digitalization, and operational efficiency.
The new restaurant is located in the Bran Plaza Shopping Center in Tohanu Nou, Brașov County, covers an area of 350 sq m, and creates 30 jobs. A full-time employee in the Crew Member position can earn a net monthly income of EUR 687.85 starting from their third month of activity. The unit represents the sixth KFC opening in 2026, bringing the network to 113 permanent units in Romania and four in Brașov County. Previously, the group added restaurants in M Park Titan, Popești-Leordeni (the first Delivery Carry Out format), Bălți (Republic of Moldova), San Donà di Piave (Italy), and a seasonal location in Nibiru.
For 2026, Sphera Franchise Group – operator of the KFC, Pizza Hut, Taco Bell, Hard Rock Cafe, and Cioccolatitaliani brands – estimates restaurant sales of over EUR 322.91 million, a 7.6% increase compared to the previous year. Profitability will follow an upward trend, with an estimated EBITDA of EUR 30.57 million (+8.2%) and a net profit of EUR 13.89 million (+1.1%). The budget is based on an average inflation rate of 6% and is set to be submitted for GSM approval on April 29, 2026.
The EUR 24.84 million investment plan includes opening 21 new restaurants: 11 in Romania (8 KFC, 2 Taco Bell, and 1 Hard Rock Cafe), two in the Republic of Moldova (KFC and Taco Bell), and eight in Italy (3 KFC and 5 Cioccolatitaliani). Additionally, the company will accelerate digitalization by installing self-ordering kiosks and remodeling existing units. Sphera CEO Călin Ionescu noted that the budget was structured prudently amidst geopolitical uncertainties and inflationary pressures on energy and raw materials, while maintaining a stable food cost share of 31.2% of sales.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Sphera Franchise Group’s total investment budget for 2026?
Sphera Franchise Group has allocated a total investment budget of EUR 24.84 million for 2026 to expand its restaurant network, digitize operations, and improve efficiency.
How many new restaurants does Sphera plan to open in 2026?
The group plans to open 21 new restaurants: 11 in Romania, two in the Republic of Moldova, and eight in Italy across brands such as KFC, Taco Bell, Hard Rock Cafe, and Cioccolatitaliani.
What are Sphera’s financial performance projections for 2026?
Sphera estimates restaurant sales exceeding EUR 322.91 million (+7.6%), an EBITDA of EUR 30.57 million (+8.2%), and a net profit of EUR 13.89 million (+1.1%).