PepsiCo has unveiled a new hydration platform, centred around two variations on the same water dispenser, as it strives to develop its water portfolio “beyond the bottle”.
The company has lifted the lid on the new water dispenser, available as both a free-standing and countertop unit, that comes with a smartphone app and personalised QR code sticker. PepsiCo said that “this ecosystem” allows users to track their water intake, set their own daily hydration goals, and keep reference of the environmental savings achieved compared with single-use plastic bottles.
It is also completely customisable, with a variety of flavours, carbonation options and temperatures to choose from. Pepsi said that consumers can create their preferred drink in the mobile app and save it for future use, while the water used in the machine is nano-filtered to guarantee that it is clean.
The launch is reminiscent of the hydration-coaching cap, developed by Israeli technology company Water.IO and rolled out this year across Danone’s bottled water brand Font Vella – albeit on a much grander scale.
It follows PepsiCo’s acquisition of another Israeli upstart – home carbonation business SodaStream – for which it agreed a $3.2 billion deal last August.
The company previously launched Drinkfinity pods and made Bubly sparkling water available on fountain – all to aid reusability and lower plastic waste.
Pepsi said the move represents “the next step along PepsiCo’s Beyond the Bottle journey”, which encompasses ways to deliver beverages without single-use plastic bottles. The company promised there would be more initiatives as the strategy develops, making it easier for consumers to stay hydrated without worrying about unnecessary waste.
Scott Finlow, chief marketing officer of PepsiCo Foodservice, said: “This new platform for hydration is an exciting step in the PepsiCo Beyond the Bottle innovation pipeline. We’ve addressed a number of trends we’re seeing resonate with consumers, including the increasing concern for the environment, preference for refillable bottles over single-use plastics, and finally choice and personalisation whenever possible. Now, whether they’re at home, work or on the go, we’ve given people a way to make healthier and more sustainable choices throughout their day and achieve their personal hydration goals.”
PepsiCo will launch the platform this year at selected workplaces, universities and hospitality partners, with additional locations to follow in the near future.
© FoodBev Media Ltd 2023
