KFC Australia Launches New Kwench Drinks as Fans Continue Calling for Krushers’ Return
KFC Australia is betting big on drinks. Its new Kwench by KFC range, featuring thick shakes, frozen treats, iced coffees and fruity refreshers, is expanding to more restaurants, and a fresh lineup of flavours has started appearing at selected stores. But for many Aussies, one question keeps coming up: are the beloved KFC Krushers ever coming back? Here’s what’s new and what fans are saying.
What Is Kwench by KFC?
Kwench is KFC’s dedicated specialty drinks brand. In Australia, it first launched as a trial at four restaurants in Wollongong in March 2025, before expanding to more locations. The original range featured 10 drinks across four categories: sparkling lemonades, boba refreshers, Krunch Shakes and iced coffees. KFC Australia’s marketing team described it at the time as the chain’s most exciting drinks innovation yet.
What’s New in the Lineup
Shoppers have recently spotted an updated Kwench menu at selected trial restaurants, including KFC Keysborough in Victoria. The new lineup includes Krunch Shakes priced at $5.95 each in four flavours: Chocolate, Caramel, Strawberry and a very Aussie Fairy Bread flavour. It also features Frozen Spiders, a frozen twist on the classic Aussie spider drink. Some stores are even bundling a Kwench drink with a Go Bucket for $7.95.
Are Krunch Shakes the New Krushers?
For many fans, Krunch Shakes look like the closest thing yet to the much-missed Krusher, KFC’s old blended frozen drink loaded with crunchy bits like cookies and lollies. When Kwench first launched, a KFC spokesperson told media they would leave it to customers to decide how the shakes compared.
Opinions are mixed. Some fans on social media have declared that “Krushers are back (kinda)”, praising the thick, creamy texture and crunchy toppings. Others say they’re not quite the same. One shopper noted that the new shakes use a soft-serve base with flavour added during dispensing, rather than being fully blended like the original Krushers.
Why Fans Still Want Krushers Back
Krushers built a loyal following over the years, especially flavours like Kookies N’ Kream. Their thick, icy texture and mix-ins made them a nostalgic favourite, and many fans still share memories of them online. Videos asking whether Krushers are coming back continue to circulate on TikTok, showing just how much the drink is still missed.
Kwench Is Going Global
Australia isn’t the only market getting Kwench. KFC is rolling out the brand in the UK with a £38 million investment, including dedicated Kwench counters, and it recently launched across all 58 restaurants in Scotland with 13 drinks. KFC Canada also introduced Kwench in 2026, backed by a $30 million investment. The global push shows that KFC sees drinks as a major growth opportunity beyond fried chicken.
Kwench Drinks at a Glance
| Drink | Category | What It Is | Price (Australia) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chocolate Krunch Shake | Shake | Thick chocolate shake with crunchy topping | $5.95 |
| Caramel Krunch Shake | Shake | Creamy caramel shake with crunchy topping | $5.95 |
| Strawberry Krunch Shake | Shake | Strawberry shake with crunchy topping | $5.95 |
| Fairy Bread Krunch Shake | Shake | Aussie-inspired sprinkle flavour | $5.95 |
| Frozen Spiders | Frozen drink | Frozen take on a classic spider | Varies by store |
| Sparkling Lemonades | Lemonade | Fruity, fizzy lemonades | Varies by store |
| Boba Refreshers | Refresher | Fruit drinks with popping boba | Varies by store |
| Iced Coffees | Coffee | Iced lattes and mochas | Varies by store |
Prices and availability vary by location, as some drinks are only at selected trial restaurants.
The Bottom Line
KFC’s Kwench range is giving Aussies more reasons to stop by for a drink, with new flavours like Fairy Bread adding a local twist. While the Krunch Shakes have won over many fans, they haven’t fully replaced the original Krushers in everyone’s hearts. For now, Krusher lovers will have to decide for themselves whether the new shakes are close enough, or keep hoping for a true comeback.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is Kwench by KFC?
Kwench is KFC’s specialty drinks range, featuring Krunch Shakes, iced coffees, sparkling lemonades, boba refreshers and frozen drinks.
2. Are KFC Krushers back in Australia?
Not officially. KFC’s Krunch Shakes have been compared to Krushers, but they are a different product, and KFC hasn’t announced a return of the original Krushers.
3. How much are Krunch Shakes at KFC Australia?
Krunch Shakes have been spotted at $5.95 each at selected trial restaurants. Prices may vary by location.
4. Is Kwench available at every KFC in Australia?
Not yet. Kwench started as a trial and has been expanding to more locations, so it’s best to check the KFC app or your local restaurant.
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