"Yum China CEO: Rising Costs Prompt Consumers to Make More Rational Dining Choices"

Yum China CEO Joey Wat says Chinese consumers are becoming more rational due to rising costs, with sales growing despite investor concerns about the broader Chinese economy. The company's revenue climbed 19% in the fourth quarter, driven by new store openings, and same-store sales rose 4%. Yum China is seeing stronger sales growth in lower-tier cities due to cheaper housing costs and higher disposable income. The company is using a barbell strategy to attract diners seeking deals and higher-quality fare, and plans to expand its footprint to over 20,000 locations by 2026.