KFC is ending its nearly four-decade beverage partnership with PepsiCo and bringing Coca-Cola products to almost 3,700 restaurants across the United States, with the changeover scheduled to begin in January 2027 and finish by spring.
The companies announced their new partnership jointly. KFC US President Catherine Tan-Gillespie said the collaboration would support the restaurant chain’s efforts to modernise its outlets and enhance its menu.
“I’m incredibly excited to bring KFC and Coca-Cola together,” Tan-Gillespie said in the statement.
Coca-Cola’s beverage range will replace KFC’s existing Pepsi products, which currently include Mountain Dew, Starry and Aquafina, alongside the chain’s own lemonade and iced tea. However, KFC has not yet revealed which Coca-Cola drinks will feature on its US menus.
The partnership could also introduce new beverage choices and food-and-drink combinations.
KFC has been testing iced coffees, boba drinks and shakes at its innovation restaurant in McKinney, Texas.
The move comes as PepsiCo faces pressure to improve soda sales amid rising costs and changing consumer preferences. However, PepsiCo will continue supplying beverages to Taco Bell and KFC outlets outside the US under agreements with parent company Yum Brands.
