Food & Beverage

Taco Bell, PepsiCo extend partnership through 2036, expand beverage innovation

Photo: Taco Bell

October 22, 2026

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As analysts continue to place their focus on the KFC US switch to Coke, Taco Bell and PepsiCo have renewed their U.S. beverage partnership for another 11 years, extending a relationship that has produced fan-favorite collaborations such as Mountain Dew Baja Blast and Doritos Locos Tacos, the company has announced in a news release.

The agreement ensures PepsiCo's beverage portfolio, including Pepsi, Pepsi Zero Sugar, Mountain Dew, Starry, Baja Blast and Baja Midnight, will continue to be available at participating Taco Bell, Taco Bell Cantina and Live Más Cafe locations nationwide through 2036.

"Some of PepsiCo's best foodservice innovations have come from partnerships that challenge us to think differently, and Taco Bell has always brought that energy," Anne Fink, president of PepsiCo Global Away from Home, said in the release. "Together, we have co-created products consumers love, from the iconic Mountain Dew Baja Blast to Doritos Locos Tacos."

The companies plan to build on more than 20 years of collaboration by expanding beverage innovation across crafted, functional and energy drinks. Future initiatives will target emerging consumer preferences, including energy beverages designed to appeal to Gen Z, while creating new morning and afternoon consumption occasions.

The partnership has already expanded beyond traditional soft drinks through offerings such as Refrescas, a premium beverage platform designed to create elevated food-and-drink pairings. Additional crafted and functional beverages are expected as the companies explore new ways to meet changing consumer needs.

Mountain Dew Baja Blast, which has grown into a billion-dollar brand, remains a centerpiece of the collaboration. Recent extensions have included Baja Midnight, the brand's best selling limited-time launch pink Baja Blast, Baja Blast Pie for Friendsgiving and Baja Blast Gelato. Meanwhile, Doritos Locos Tacos will mark its 15th anniversary in 2027, with new flavors planned for the platform.

"Strong partnerships have always been critical to how Taco Bell grows and evolves," Meg Farren, Taco Bell's president of North America, said in the release. "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."

Internationally, PepsiCo will continue as Taco Bell's beverage partner in Canada, the United Kingdom, Ireland and Thailand. The companies will collaborate on localized beverage innovation and market-specific programs tailored to consumers and restaurant operators in those markets.