{Economic Daily News, December 16} KFC announced on Thursday (15th) that its U.S. locations will stop offering PepsiCo beverages next year and instead begin supplying drinks from The Coca-Cola Company. This marks the first time in 40 years that KFC, a subsidiary of Yum! Brands, has changed its beverage supplier. Industry insiders describe Coca-Cola's addition of KFC as a significant victory.

　　Since KFC became a brand under Yum! Brands in 1986, it has consistently offered Pepsi beverages, with only select international markets providing Coca-Cola products.

　　Catherine Tan-Gillespie, President of KFC U.S., stated that KFC expects all its U.S. locations to begin offering Coca-Cola beverages by the end of the first quarter of 2027.

　　She said: "This decision is a key step in KFC's 'Re-Amped' strategy. By establishing a new partnership with Coca-Cola and launching an entirely new beverage lineup, we will gain an innovative platform that enables us to adapt to evolving taste preferences."

　　PepsiCo (US.PEP) shares dropped as much as 1.6% on Thursday, closing down 0.69%. Coca-Cola (US.KO) shares rose approximately 0.2%. Citigroup raised its price target for Coca-Cola from $100 to $102, maintaining a "Buy" rating. (rc)