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KFC brings fast food to famed Italian ski slopes as proud locals revolt
KFC plans to open restaurants at two Italian Alpine ski resorts on 5 December, prompting criticism from people who say the outlets threaten local traditions and the villages’ character. The move would make it the first fast-food chain to operate on Italian ski trails, placing a global brand in destinations known for their regional culture and cuisine.
One restaurant is planned inside the Faloria Mountain Club in Cortina d’Ampezzo, at 2,123 metres, and the other in Madonna di Campiglio’s Piana di Nambino area, at 1,700 metres. KFC is working with après-ski company Super G and says it will respect local culture; supporters point to the potential for quick, affordable food, while critics raise concerns about wildlife and commercial influence. Fast food has operated on ski slopes elsewhere, including McDonald’s McSki in Sweden, which opened in 1996.
In short
- KFC plans two Italian ski resort restaurants for 5 December.
- Critics say they could undermine local culture and nature.
- The outlets would be Italy’s first fast-food restaurants on ski trails.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
The restaurants could give skiers a quick, affordable and familiar meal, adding choice in busy resorts and potentially attracting visitors. If KFC works with local businesses and respects the setting, its presence need not prevent regional food and traditions from continuing alongside it.
The case against
The resorts’ appeal is closely tied to their local character and food culture, so a prominent global chain could make distinctive villages feel more commercial and interchangeable. Critics may also reasonably question whether new food outlets in sensitive mountain settings could add pressure on wildlife and the environment.