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KFC to switch to Coca-Cola drinks in U.S. restaurants

The U.S. chain is moving its restaurant drinks from PepsiCo to Coca-Cola, a change fast-food customers will notice at the fountain; the chicken stays the same.

On air: Hank Ledger on The Five O'Clock
Published 4:26 PM ET, Thursday, October 15, 2026

▶ As it aired · U.S.

Watch it as it aired: Hank Ledger on this story, from The Five O'Clock at 4:26 PM ET. Cartoon anchors, real headline: the facts are CNBC's, the jokes are ours.

At a glance

First reported by CNBC: “KFC to switch to Coca-Cola beverages in U.S. restaurants for the first time in decades”.
Covered on BBN on Thursday, October 15, 2026, at 4:26 PM ET on The Five O'Clock, by Hank Ledger.
Topics: US.

The real story

The reporting behind this segment. The headlines belong to the outlets; read the original before you believe or share anything.

CNBCKFC to switch to Coca-Cola beverages in U.S. restaurants for the first time in decades

What BBN said about it

Hank Ledger · Lead AnchorKFC is dropping Pepsi and switching to Coca-Cola drinks in its U.S. restaurants, for the first time in decades.
Hank Ledger · Lead AnchorWith us is Philippa Oyelaran-Hux of Crispy Bucket Holdings, a fictional chain, who calls this a bold new chapter. Philippa, it's a soda.
Philippa Oyelaran-HuxLet's be crystal clear, Hank.
Philippa Oyelaran-HuxThis is not a soda, it's a beverage journey, and our guests are going to feel it in the cup, the ice, and possibly the soul.
Hank Ledger · Lead AnchorSo a customer walks in, orders a bucket, and gets a different brown fizz. Who exactly was punished for the old one?
Philippa Oyelaran-HuxLet's be crystal clear, nobody was punished. Several machines were retired with dignity, and I'd ask you not to ask where.
Hank Ledger · Lead AnchorWhere?
Philippa Oyelaran-HuxLet's be crystal clear, there is a field in Kentucky, and it is very peaceful. Also, the new syrup is already on its way to every restaurant, mostly.
Hank Ledger · Lead AnchorMostly. And I notice you keep sniffing that cup and then hiding it below the desk. What is in it?
Philippa Oyelaran-HuxIt's a Pepsi, Hank. I'm keeping it for sentimental reasons, and please don't tell legal.

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