KFC locations have abruptly closed in the Rockford area. Here's what we know

Several KFC locations in the Rockford area have closed.

Recently affected locations include:

• 1502 Kilburn Ave., Rockford
• 3035 11th St., Rockford
• 1586 West Lane Road, Machesney Park
• 1160 N. State St, Belvidere

The stores in Rockford, Machesney Park and Belvidere were among several across Illinois to shut their doors this week. Stores in Peoria, Pekin and Pontiac also closed.

The following message was posted on the doors of those businesses.

"We wanted to take a moment to express our heartfelt gratitude for your loyal support over the years. It is with mixed emotions that we announce the closure of our store. We understand the news may come as a surprise, but we feel it is the right decision for us at this time.

"We want to thank each and every one of you for your continued patience and understanding during this transition period.

"Your support has meant the world to us, and we are truly grateful for all the memories we have shared with you."

The Rockford Register Star reached out to KFC's media contact and received the following statement.

"The decision to close a restaurant is always difficult for both the franchisee and the brand. We appreciate the patronage of our loyal guests."

It's not clear if the stores will reopen or when. Questions about future plans for the closed stores were not answered.

Not all stores in Illinois were closed. KFC's media contact confirmed that stores in Galesburg and Macomb remain open.

Editor's note: This story has been updated to reflect updated information from KFC on store closures in Illinois.

This article originally appeared on Rockford Register Star: KFC locations have abruptly closed in the Rockford area. Here's what we know