KFC will switch its U.S. beverage provider to The Coca-Cola Company, ending a decades-long partnership with PepsiCo. The transition is scheduled to begin in January 2027. Coca-Cola products are expected to be available at all of KFC’s approximately 3,700 U.S. locations by spring 2027.
The loss is a notable blow to PepsiCo, which owned KFC until spinning off its restaurant division in 1997. KFC says the move is part of a broader strategy to refresh its brand and menu offerings.
PepsiCo will continue to supply Taco Bell and many international KFC markets. Winning KFC’s U.S. fountain rights strengthens Coca-Cola’s position in the domestic foodservice industry at the expense of its primary rival.