- KFC will switch its U.S. restaurant beverages from PepsiCo to Coca-Cola in 2027, the first supplier change in decades.
- KFC expects to pour Coke beverages in all U.S. restaurants by the end of Q1 2027.
- KFC U.S. restaurants have used PepsiCo drinks since Pepsi acquired KFC in 1986, and KFC was Coke's second-largest fountain account at that time.
- The switch aims to win back U.S. diners who have moved to rivals such as Chick-fil-A and Popeyes.
- PepsiCo remains an important partner for KFC's parent company and the chain's international markets, according to KFC.
- Coca-Cola has won several notable Pepsi accounts in recent years, including Culver's, Arby's and Panda Express. Pepsi took Subway from Coke in 2024.
Quotes
“This decision is a critical step in the Kentucky Fried Comeback”
“A new beverage offering, with a new partner in Coca-Cola, gives us a platform to innovate, meet changing tastes and give customers more reasons to choose us.”