KFC distances itself from chicken vending machine in Spanish Town

KFC Jamaica has moved quickly to shut down rumours swirling online after a video showing a vending machine dispensing KFC meal boxes began circulating on social media, leaving many viewers convinced the fast-food giant had launched a new automated service.

In the viral clip, the machine, located inside the Spanish Town Shopping Centre in St Catherine, appears stocked with branded KFC boxes. Another video also showed service workers on location, assisting customers with ordering, further fuelling speculation that the setup was officially linked to the company. The footage also revealed that Popeyes-branded items were available from the same machine.

However, KFC Jamaica has distanced itself from the operation, making it clear that the vending machine is not part of its business.

In an "Important Notice" posted online, the company said it is aware of a third-party operated vending machine in the Spanish Town area offering KFC meals for sale but stressed that the unit is not operated, endorsed or affiliated with KFC Jamaica or Restaurants of Jamaica (ROJ) Limited.

The clarification comes amid heavy online chatter, with many social media users questioning how the machine could legally sell branded meals and whether it was a test run by the popular fast-food chain.

KFC's statement appears aimed at ending the confusion, as the unusual sight of a vending machine dispensing familiar fast-food boxes, complete with attendants on hand, sparked widespread curiosity and debate.

The company did not say who owns or operates the machine, but made it clear that customers should not assume any connection to KFC Jamaica despite the branding seen in the videos.

- Antwaine Campbell

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