In response, Compassion in World Farming — alongside The Humane League UK and the RSPCA — has issued a joint open letter urging the companies to demonstrate ethical leadership by reinstating their Better Chicken Commitments.
The eight companies are: Burger King UK, Lemon Pepper Holdings (Wingstop), Loungers UK (Brightside, Cosy Club, Lounge Café Bars), Nando’s UK & Ireland, PLK Chicken UK (Popeyes), The Big Table (Banana Tree, Bella Italia, Las Iguanas, Frankie & Benny’s), The Restaurant Group (Barburrito, Brunning & Price, Wagamama, TRGC), Yum! Brands (KFC UK & Ireland, Pizza Hut UK, Taco Bell UK).
The open letter states: “Animal welfare is a key pillar of sustainability – ditching welfare is not only irresponsible, but short-sighted. Companies delivering Better Chicken are managing to balance cost, welfare and sustainability commitments, whilst also expanding capacity to meet consumer demand and fulfil customer expectations.
“There are timeline extensions available to companies who may struggle to meet the original 2026 BCC deadline. Rather than abandoning your pledge, we urge you to stand firm and reinstate your Better Chicken Commitment, including the breed component, making use of the available timeline extensions.
“We therefore call on you to show ethical leadership and help drive a transition to chicken production that is genuinely compatible with both animal welfare and long-term sustainability.”