[UPDATED] KFC customers to pay for condiments as production costs increase

People will now have to pay $2 for condiments at KFC.

KFC president Roger Rambharose confirmed the charge in response to Newsday on Monday.

Customers who went to branches in Port of Spain were shocked to find they had to pay the extra cost for the condiments.

Notice of the additional cost has also appeared on KFC’s website and app.

For the $2, the company is offering two containers of ketchup, one of mustard and a container of pepper. Customers can also opt to get three ketchups and one pepper instead.

Prestige Holdings CEO Simon Hardy said for now other franchises under Prestige Holdings ­– Pizza Hut, TGI Fridays, Subway and Starbucks – have not made the same move, but major increases in prices have caused KFC to think outside the box when making price adjustments.

“Unless you have been living under a rock you would know of the issues facing businesses because of covid19. There have been rampant increases across the board. We have seen increases in areas we have never seen before.”

Hardy said KFC deciding to charge for the condiments was an alternative to increasing prices altogether.

“We are saying if you want KFC, then fine. The condiments would be at an extra cost now. There are some people who may not want the condiments. It is about giving customers a choice instead of charging everyone across the board.”

Sources in food production, manufacturing and distribution told Newsday the cost of several inputs in the production of condiments have skyrocketed. These include packaging, caps, raw materials – including spices and even mustard seed and tomato paste. Prices have been increasing steadily over the past 12 months.

However, customers were upset on Monday.

“To be really honest, the price of everything is going up. The cost of living is going up, but salaries are not increasing. You can’t expect people to go through this with simple things like ketchup we are being charged for,” said Amanda Castor.

“As it is right now, it is really hard. I have a master’s degree, and I lost my job. Now to come to KFC Independence Square and hear about getting charged for ketchup, it is a complete turn off.”

Castor suggested that people patronise small businesses where you would not be charged for condiments.

“This is stupidness,” said Alicia Daniel, another customer.

“You are not supposed to get charged for condiments, they are supposed to be free.”

This is the third price increase within the space of a year for KFC.

In July last year, the company increased its Big Deal and Boss Meal by $2.05, and high-end products such as the bucket of chicken was reconfigured. The ten-piece or six-piece deal was adjusted to not include a two litre drink, but extra sides were added.

From November 1 last year it also increased its delivery fees from $15 to $20.

This story has been updated to include additional information. Read original below:

People will now have to pay $2 for condiments at KFC.

KFC president Roger Rambharose confirmed the charge in response to a question from Newsday on Monday.

Customers who went to branches in Port of Spain were shocked to find they had to pay the extra cost for the condiments.

Prices for the condiments have also appeared on KFC's websites and apps.

Newsday understands that the fried chicken franchise will, for the $2 charge, offer two containers of ketchup, one of mustard and a container of pepper.