KFC is dropping Pepsi after nearly 40 years: Here’s why and what will replace it alongside your burgers and buckets

If you loved having Pepsi right next to your KFC bucket then you will have to make some adjustments. After over four decades the chain’s US restaurant has moved on from Pepsi and has selected Coca-Cola has its nee beverage partner. You can expect the the change in your KFC meal from January 2027 in most of the American restaurants of the chain. So for regular customers it can be about getting a new but familiar refreshment with your burger or bucket. However, for KFC employees and executive it is an effort to make the brand more exciting and popular. .

When will KFC replace Pepsi with Coca Cola?

KFC is prepared to start replacing Pepsi with Coca Cola from January 2027 and the transition is expected to be completed by spring, as per the companies’ October 15 announcement. Coca-Cola's statement puts the network at 3,600 restaurants.

But the customers will be able to enjoy Coca Cola in a phased manner and not suddenly replaced in every restaurant in US on the same day,

Why is KFC switching beverage partners?

KFC U.S. president Catherine Tan-Gillespie linked the agreement to the chain's broader plans for its restaurants. She said that this partnership doesn’t just mean they are changing a beverage, it is more about evolving the brand.

Coca-Cola executive Dagmar Boggs highlighted opportunities to combine KFC's food with the beverage company's portfolio. He said that this announcement about the agreement is more about future innovations and there can be upgraded drinks but a complete KFC drink menu has not been revealed yet.

How long has KFC served Pepsi?

The connection dates to PepsiCo's purchase of KFC in 1986. PepsiCo separated its restaurant business in 1997, but the beverage relationship continued. KFC became part of the business now known as Yum! Brands.

The new deal therefore changes a longstanding supplier arrangement. It does not mean Coca-Cola is buying KFC.

Will KFC restaurants outside America stop serving Pepsi?

No, the announcement is just focused on the United States restaurants and should be considered as a worldwide removal of Pepsi from other countries KFC restaurants. Reuters reported that PepsiCo recently renewed agreements covering Taco Bell and KFC's international restaurants.

FAQs

Is KFC replacing Pepsi immediately?

No. The U.S. transition begins in January 2027.

Will every Coca-Cola brand be available?

The announcement does not specify the complete lineup. Individual drink availability remains to be detailed.