Soda wars: Taco Bell backs Pepsi, KFC picks Coke

Taco Bell
PepsiCo will also remain Taco Bell’s beverage partner in Canada, the UK, Ireland and Thailand.  (Source: Supplied)

While KFC prepares to switch to Coca-Cola next year, sister chain Taco Bell is moving in the opposite direction, renewing its partnership with PepsiCo for another 11 years.

The renewed partnership comes shortly after Yum Brands announced that KFC would transition to Coca-Cola products across its more than 3600 US restaurants beginning next year, ending a decades-long relationship with PepsiCo.

The Taco Bell agreement will see the chain continue to serve PepsiCo’s beverage portfolio, including Pepsi, Pepsi Zero Sugar, Mountain Dew and Starry, across its restaurants.

PepsiCo will also remain Taco Bell’s beverage partner in Canada, the UK, Ireland and Thailand. 

The companies said they will continue collaborating on beverage innovation, localized offerings and market-specific programs tailored to consumers and restaurant operators.

“Strong partnerships have always been critical to how Taco Bell grows and evolves,” said Meg Farren, president of Taco Bell North America.

“PepsiCo has been a trusted partner for over two decades, and we look forward to continuing to work hand in hand to drive long-term growth for the Taco Bell brand, create greater value across our system and find new ways to meet the evolving needs of our consumers.”

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