# KFC ditches Pepsi for Coca-Cola in U.S. restaurants

> KFC ends a four-decade relationship with PepsiCo to switch to Coca-Cola beverages across U.S. locations, part of a bid to win back customers.
- Title: KFC ditches Pepsi for Coca-Cola in U.S. restaurants · CNBC
- Summary: KFC ends a four-decade relationship with PepsiCo to switch to Coca-Cola beverages across U.S. locations, part of a bid to win back customers. KFC is…
- Keywords: kfc, yum brands, coca-cola, pepsico, beverage supplier, restaurant strategy, fast food, business, finance, ditches, Pepsi, restaurants
- Source: CNBC — https://cnbc.com/2026/10/15/kfc-coca-cola-pepsi-switch.html
- Author: Amelia Lucas
- Published: 2026-10-15T19:53:16+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: kfc, yum brands, coca-cola, pepsico, beverage supplier, restaurant strategy, fast food, business, finance
## Four decades end
KFC's U.S. restaurants will switch from PepsiCo to Coca-Cola beverages next year, marking the first time in decades the Yum Brands chain has changed its drink supplier.
## A long partnership
KFC's U.S. restaurants have served Pepsi drinks ever since PepsiCo bought KFC in 1986. At that time, KFC was Coke's second-largest fountain account, trailing only McDonald's.
## Winning back diners
KFC aims to win back U.S.diners who have ditched the fried chicken chain for rivals like Chick-fil-A or Popeyes.KFC U.S.President Catherine Tan-Gillespie called the switch a critical step in the Kentucky Fried Comeback.

> This decision is a critical step in the Kentucky Fried Comeback.
## Beverages as strategy
For many fast-food chains, beverages have become critical to attracting consumers. KFC recently unveiled new drinks like iced coffees and shakes at its Open House innovation restaurant in Texas.
## Timeline and precedent
KFC expects to pour Coke beverages in all U.S.restaurants by the end of the first quarter of twenty twenty-seven.Large restaurant chains rarely switch beverage providers, but Pepsi poached Subway from Coke in twenty twenty-four.
## Key takeaway

KFC is switching from PepsiCo to Coca-Cola as its U.S. beverage supplier in 2027, ending a partnership that began when Pepsi acquired the chain in 1986.