This is absolutely not the news we needed. - by Catie Powers
We don't mean to alarm anyone but KFC is facing chicken shortages as a result of the Omicron variant.
C'mon COVID, locking us indoors was one thing but taking away our Zinger burgers? Not cool.
WATCH:This is how KFC makes its signature gravy
As Omicron sweeps across the country, supply chain issues continue to run rampant. They come as a result of transportation, distribution and store workers being in isolation due to the variant.
First it was supermarkets that saw empty shelves, and now it's fast-food franchises feeling the strain.
KFC
As a result, a spokesperson for KFC announced the sad news that some of their restaurants will be offering a "reduced menu".
"Unfortunately our supply chain has been disrupted," they said in a statement, according to Nine.
"We're sorry for any issues this causes our customers – we're doing everything we can to help our suppliers get back on track."
“This isn’t the way we wanted to start the year, please be kind to each other, and our staff as they do their best to provide the chicken we all love," their website read.
Coles
Of course, KFC isn't the only one feeling the brunt of the supply chain shortages. Supermarket giant Coles has been facing similar disruptions to their stock.
“An increase in Covid case numbers in the community has required more people to isolate, which has meant fewer people are available to work in Australia — including in the food industry,” Coles CEO Steven Cain said in a statement.
“At Coles, this has resulted in disruptions to deliveries from our suppliers which in turn has impacted the availability of some products in our stores.”
WATCH:KFC Style Popcorn Chicken (Article continues after video)
As for how widespread this chicken shortage is, fast-food fanatics can rest assured that not all restaurants seem to be completely affected, with McDonalds assuring the country they have been "carefully managing" their supply chain.
"We continue to work closely with our strong network of long term suppliers, farmers and producers throughout the pandemic, to ensure our customers can continue to enjoy our great tasting food."
Here's hoping the chicken shortage is short lived and workers can safely return to work, and their livelihoods, as soon as possible.
Are you a KFC fan? Check out the articles below!
KFC launches a pizza version of its cult-favourite the Double
KFC's Chicken 'n Croffles is perfect for when you're craving dinner for breakfast
A burger, twister and crunch bowl: KFC's Zinger crunch range is here
You have to try this new KFC-inspired popcorn chicken recipe
KFC divides fans after revealing its secret gravy recipe
As a digital writer for New Idea, Catie Powers covers all things entertainment, lifestyle, and royals.
