YUM vs HSY Comparison

As of the end of 2025, Yum Brands generated over $68 billion in systemwide sales from more than 63,000 restaurants across 155 markets, making it the world's second-largest restaurant firm by dollar sales. Its portfolio includes KFC (33,897 stores), Pizza Hut (19,974), Taco Bell (9,030), and Habit Burger (384), with 72% of locations in international markets. As 97% of its portfolio is franchised, Yum's business model is tilted toward recurring franchise royalties and marketing contributions (64% of revenue), with the balance derived from sales at company-owned locations. The company traces its roots to a 1997 spinoff of PepsiCo's restaurant assets.

Hershey is a leading US confectionery manufacturer (around a $55 billion market, according to Euromonitor), controlling 35% of the domestic chocolate aisle. Beyond its namesake label, the firm's portfolio has expanded over the last 85 years and now comprises 100 brands, including Reese's, Kit Kat, Kisses, and Ice Breakers. Hershey's products are sold in about 80 countries, albeit with just a high-single-digit percentage of sales coming from markets outside the US, including Brazil, India, and Mexico. The firm has sought inorganic opportunities to extend its reach beyond its core confectionery business, adding Amplify Snack Brands and its Skinny Pop ready-to-eat popcorn to its portfolio, as well as Pirate Brands, Dot's Pretzels, and LesserEvil over the past few years.