Sorry, Pepsi fans! If you prefer this cola over Coke, you won’t be happy about KFC’s latest announcement.
The fast-food chain recently revealed in a press release that it will be switching from Pepsi products to Coca-Cola beverages at its U.S. restaurants. Beyond disappointing Pepsi die-hards, this also ends a partnership that has lasted nearly 40 years. The change is expected to begin in January 2027, with Coca-Cola products rolling out across KFC locations nationwide by spring.
The news has sparked mixed reactions from customers. Some Pepsi loyalists are threatening to stop eating at the fried chicken chain altogether. Others are celebrating the switch, but the change could also mean the loss of some fan-favorite drinks. Here’s what customers are saying about KFC’s upcoming beverage shake-up.
Women Are Swapping Their Boring Water For This Ice Pop Electrolyte Mix!
KFC Is Ditching Pepsi For Coca-Cola After Nearly 40 Years
According to Reuters, KFC has selected Coca-Cola as its beverage supplier for its more than 3,700 U.S. restaurants. PepsiCo acquired KFC all the way back in 1986, so this new agreement is a major change.
Coca-Cola products will replace Pepsi beverages, with drinks such as Sprite and Fanta potentially taking the place of existing PepsiCo offerings. The good news for Pepsi fans is that PepsiCo will continue supplying beverages to KFC restaurants internationally, and its partnership with fellow Yum! Brands chain Taco Bell will remain in place. Baja Blast marked safe!
So, you can still get an ice-cold Pepsi with your chicken, but you might have to leave the country.
One major question is what will happen to Mountain Dew Sweet Lightning, KFC’s exclusive peach-and-honey-flavored soda. Since Mountain Dew is owned by PepsiCo, the switch could mean the end of the popular drink at KFC. The company has not confirmed its future, according to Dexerto.
Pepsi Fans Are Threatening To Boycott KFC Over The Change
The announcement has prompted strong reactions online, particularly from customers who prefer Pepsi to Coke. As Allrecipes reported, one commenter expressed their disappointment by writing, "As a loyal Pepsi drinker, I just crossed KFC off my list of places to eat."
Another customer was even more blunt, commenting, "Bye, bye, KFC, it's been nice knowing you." This proves that, for some customers, a restaurant's drink selection can be just as important as its food.
Not everyone is upset, however. Coca-Cola fans welcomed the news, with one commenter saying, "Nice! I will go back to KFC!" Another called the decision a "smart move," adding that they would be visiting the chain.
What do you think? Are you happy about the potential for a crisp fountain Coke from KFC, or are you grieving Pepsi?
In any case, our hearts go out to Addison Rae at this time.
