KFC Set to Open in Dolomites Ski Resorts Amid Some Strong Opposition
13th November 2026
Kentucky Fried Chicken is preparing to open outlets in Cortina d’Ampezzo and Madonna di Campiglio in Italy. Some locals are firmly against it. NEW
The “quick service restaurants” are planned to open on December 5th.
The chief marketing officer for KFC Italia, Marzia Farè, said the company aimed at “surprising people” and is “reaching places where nobody would expect to find us” without sacrificing the special blend of herbs, spices that “makes them unique.”
Not everyone is quite so excited with local opposition and threats of legal action according to a report in the New York Post.
Alberico Zardin is the majority shareholder of the Cortina d’Ampezzo infrastructure operator, Faloria Spa, and he is threatening legal action.
“The mere idea is disgraceful,” Zardini told Il Messaggero.
“It’s absurd and shameful to imagine a fast-food joint in the most beautiful spot in Cortina.
“Do the people of Cortina not realise what we’re risking here?”
“I am 100% against it and will not just sit back and watch,” he said.
Zardini has allegedly written to the owners of Faloria, warning them that he would pursue legal action if KFC is permitted to open.
Other opponents think KFC is not a good fit for Cortina with its upmarket establishments and glamerous image.
Cortina, the Dolomites, Italy. Image © PlanetSKI
Cortina, the Dolomites, Italy. Image © PlanetSKI
Cortina, the Dolomites, Italy. Image © PlanetSKI
A branch in Madonna di Campiglio has also run into some local opposition.
Trentino provincial councilor, Paola Demagri, said that local mountain culture is being “sold out to Kentucky chicken.”
“We need to acknowledge our assets – our cuisine made of few ingredients and excellent products,” said Oscar Farinetti, the founder of Eataly.
“There is a lack of studying one’s own roots – we’re eating fried chicken instead of a nice slice of salami with a glass of fresh wine.”
Some though argue it is good to have cheaper food on offer that appeals to those on a budget.
Cortina, the Dolomites, Italy. Image © PlanetSKI
It could be worse for opponents – it might have been on the slopes themselves with a ski-through service.
The Swedish resort of Sälen has the world’s only ski-in/ski-out McDonalds that is known as McSki.
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