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The Colonel is shaking up what\u2019s in the soda fountain. KFC announced a new partnership with Coca-Cola that moves its U.S. beverage choices away from long-time partner PepsiCo. The transition starts in January 2027, and Coke products are expected in all U.S. restaurants by spring 2027.<\/p>\n
It\u2019s the end of a roughly 40-year relationship between KFC U.S. and Pepsi, according to Nation\u2019s Restaurant News.<\/a> PepsiCo bought KFC in 1986 and kept the pouring rights even after spinning the chain off into Yum Brands in 1997. <\/p>\n \u201cThis partnership is about more than what\u2019s in the cup,\u201d said KFC U.S. President Catherine Tan-Gillespie, who calls the deal another step in evolving the brand. KFC is also expanding its drink lineup with iced coffees, boba and shakes at Open House, its new innovation restaurant in McKinney, Texas.<\/p>\n PepsiCo isn\u2019t fizzing out. The soda giant remains a partner for Yum! Brands and recently renewed agreements covering Taco Bell and KFC\u2019s international restaurants, including a 10-year deal with Taco Bell.<\/p>\n