KFC to Switch to Coca-Cola Drinks Starting in January
The restaurant chain will transition away from its longtime partnership with PepsiCo in U.S. locations.
Updated on Oct. 15, 2026 in Dining Out
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Starting in January 2027, KFC will begin transitioning its United States restaurants to offer Coca-Cola beverage products. This shift concludes a multi-decade supply agreement between the restaurant chain and PepsiCo.
Why it matters
The change represents a significant pivot for the brand, which has served PepsiCo drinks since the corporation acquired KFC in 1986. This move will fundamentally alter the beverage options available to millions of diners across the country.
PepsiCo acquired KFC in October 1986 for $840 million, establishing a long-standing supply relationship. KFC also launched the Mountain Dew Sweet Lightning drink in 2019.
The players
KFC
KFC is a global fast-food restaurant chain specializing in fried chicken.
PepsiCo
PepsiCo is a multinational food, snack, and beverage corporation.
Coca-Cola
Coca-Cola is a global beverage corporation that produces soft drinks and other refreshments.
The details
Restaurants across the United States will undergo a transition period to replace existing beverage equipment and supplies. While the rollout begins in January 2027, product availability may vary at individual locations until the process concludes in the spring.
Timeline
October 1986: PepsiCo acquired Kentucky Fried Chicken.
2019: KFC launched Mountain Dew Sweet Lightning.
September 2026: KFC opened an experimental restaurant in McKinney, Texas.
January 2027: Coca-Cola product rollout begins.
Spring 2027: Coca-Cola products expected nationwide at KFC.
Culture Shift
This transition marks a formal departure from the integrated corporate structure established by the 1986 acquisition of Kentucky Fried Chicken by PepsiCo. Such a move reflects shifting strategic partnerships in the competitive fast-food sector.
Customers should expect varying beverage options during the transition period as restaurants update their fountain equipment throughout the winter. By spring 2027, diners will see a permanent change to the soft drink menu at all locations.
The takeaway
The transition to a new beverage supplier signals a change in the consumer experience for KFC patrons nationwide. Diners will need to adjust their expectations as the brand shifts away from long-standing menu items like Mountain Dew Sweet Lightning.
Further reading
For more on industry shifts, visit the United States Dining Out section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by ¡Que Onda Magazine!.
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Would you change how often you visit KFC because they are switching to Coca-Cola products?
