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Hey, University of Utah fans, is Pepsi OK?
After 10 years with Coca-Cola, the university announced Wednesday that PepsiCo will soon be the official beverage provider on campus, including the University of Utah Hospital community, auxiliary services and sponsorship of Utah athletics.
The multi-year agreement is scheduled to take effect in July 2017, bringing PepsiCo's portfolio of soft drinks, Aquafina water, Gatorade, Pure Leaf tea, Naked juices and Starbucks bottled coffees to campus.
In a prepared statement, U. chief administrative officer John Nixon said the university is excited to begin its partnership with PepsiCo, which will include support and services for students.
"Significant new resources from this contract will allow us to expand financial support for our students through additional scholarships," Nixon said. "Roughly 200 new scholarships will be given to students with the greatest financial need, to students with noteworthy academic success and to current students and returning adults close to earning their degrees."
PepsiCo will work with the university on a number of initiatives, including sustainability and recycling programs, career development and internships, and campus vending machines stocked with healthy snack and beverage alternatives, according to Wednesday's announcement.
The company will also provide products, equipment and services to the school's athletics department through the Gatorade brand.
"We're looking forward to working closely with the University of Utah to match our extensive beverage lineup with the unique needs of its students, faculty, guests and hospital community," PepsiCo North America Beverages President Kirk Tanner said. "We're proud to have been chosen to serve the campus, and we look forward to creating exciting and inspiring experiences for everyone who touches the U community."
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