The downside of a reliance on franchisees was that it permitted an erosion of system integrity. Local franchisees typically controlled a portfolio of companies, with KFC sales representing only a portion of revenues. Local franchisees, driven by a desire to maximize profits. Often cut corners or "milked" operations. While this type of strategy would generally not compromise short-term profitability, it often let to the deterioration of operations over the longer term. This problem was only exacerbated internationally where control was more difficult to maintain.