The KFC/Taco Bell on South Lincoln in Knoxville closed Monday.

Owner Kevin Schlutz with Central Iowa KFC tells KNIA/KRLS News the store had many marginal and unprofitable years before the closure. Schlutz says the other 15 stores he owns had been subsidizing the operation of the Knoxville KFC/Taco Bell for many years and it was decided that the cost of a much needed remodel could never be recovered. The franchise terms were ending soon, so the only decision left was to close the restaurant, according to Schlutz. He says many of the employees were offered employment at other locations prior to the closure. Schlutz thanks the many loyal customers and long-time employees who he says are like family and the many other businesses in Knoxville as well as the Chamber of Commerce and city government. He says the decision to close the store was especially difficult because he helped his father and grandfather to open it 38 years ago. The land and the building are for sale.