Why Is KFC Switching From Pepsi to Coca-Cola?
Saturday, October 17, 2026166 words3 minutes244 reads
KFC is ending a nearly 40-year drinks partnership with Pepsi in the United States. Announced on October 15, the switch to Coca-Cola will begin in January 2027. Coca-Cola products are expected at all US KFC restaurants by spring.
The long relationship began when PepsiCo bought KFC in 1986. PepsiCo separated its restaurant business in 1997, but the drinks partnership continued. Now KFC says its new deal supports a broader effort to refresh its US business, including its restaurants and menu.
Drinks are part of that plan. At a test restaurant in Texas, KFC has tried iced coffee, boba drinks and milkshakes. It says Coca-Cola could help develop new beverages and food-and-drink combinations. A drinks contract can also involve equipment, delivery and marketing support, while giving the supplier access to many customers.
The financial details have not been made public. The change concerns US restaurants: Pepsi will still supply many KFC locations abroad. For customers, the biggest difference may simply be which cola comes with their chicken.
