KFC US to Switch from Pepsi to Coca-Cola in 2026
After four decades of partnership, KFC restaurants in the United States will transition from PepsiCo products to Coca-Cola starting next year.
According to a report by Khaosod Online citing CNBC, KFC locations across the United States are set to end their long-standing relationship with PepsiCo. Starting next year, these restaurants will begin serving Coca-Cola products instead. This shift marks a significant change for the brand, as KFC has exclusively served PepsiCo beverages in the U.S. since Pepsi acquired the fast-food chain in 1986.
For residents and travelers in Thailand, it is important to note that this change is currently specific to the United States market. While some international KFC markets already offer Coca-Cola, the operational structure of Yum Brands—the parent company of KFC, Pizza Hut, and Taco Bell—varies by region.
This transition is part of a strategic move by the company to potentially attract a broader customer base. Historically, KFC was one of Coca-Cola’s largest fountain drink customers before the 1986 acquisition. While this news highlights a major shift in the American fast-food landscape, it remains to be confirmed how this corporate decision might influence global supply chain agreements or if similar changes are planned for other international territories in the future. Consumers should monitor local announcements to see if beverage offerings at their specific KFC locations remain unchanged.
