Coca-Cola ousts Pepsi as major hotel chain’s beverage provider
The Coca-Cola Company has signed an agreement with Marriott International to replace its competitor Pepsi as Marriott’s beverage provider around the world.
Pepsi had been Marriott’s beverage provider since 1992.
“The Coca-Cola Company is proud to be working with Marriott International’s global portfolio,” the Coca-Cola Company said in a statement. “We look forward to playing our role in creating a great guest experience across the world’s largest hotel company.”
The deal puts Coke products in front of guests across Marriott’s massive footprint of about 9,700 properties in 143 countries. This makes the deal one of the higher-visibility wins in the long rivalry between Coca-Cola and Pepsi.
For Coca-Cola, it’s a direct boost to its core business: more fountain pours, minibar and market sales and banquet and catering volume. There is also the marketing value of being the default drink across Marriott’s properties.
By Tim Darnell and Gray News staff