Overview
- KFC has confirmed plans to open two mountain restaurants in the Dolomites at Cortina d'Ampezzo and Madonna di Campiglio, describing the sites as places the chain wanted to “surprise” and reach.
- The announcement prompted an immediate local backlash, with Alberico Zardini — a major shareholder in a Cortina lift and spa company — saying he will pursue legal action if operators proceed and municipal officials asking mountain managers to reconsider.
- Prominent food figures such as Oscar Farinetti publicly condemned the decision as out of place for elite Alpine resorts, while some local voices argued the outrage distracts from bigger tourism and infrastructure problems.
- KFC and observers point to a clear economic case for the openings, noting demand for cheaper, convenient meals among cost-conscious visitors and low-paid seasonal workers who lack affordable on-mountain options.
- No court filings or administrative blocks have been reported so far, so the openings remain scheduled and could be delayed or contested if legal challenges or regulatory reviews proceed, and the dispute has reopened a wider debate about commercial development and place identity in post‑Olympic resort towns.