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The PepsiCo Foundation is scaling up its regenerative agriculture efforts in southern Spain with the second edition of its VivaOliva programme, targeting deeper impact across the olive oil supply chain in Jaén, a region widely regarded as the world’s leading olive oil producer.
The 2026 iteration of VivaOliva will support 200 farmers from the SCA Bedmarense cooperative, building on a successful pilot that engaged more than 150 producers last year.
The initiative combines sustainability goals with economic inclusion, aiming to modernise olive farming while encouraging generational renewal in rural communities.
At its core, VivaOliva focuses on accelerating the adoption of regenerative agriculture techniques, an area of growing importance for food and beverage companies seeking to decarbonise supply chains and improve raw material resilience.
Participating farmers will receive hands-on training in soil regeneration, water conservation and biodiversity enhancement. The programme includes three in-field training sessions throughout the year, alongside workshops and tailored technical support delivered in partnership with Earthworm Foundation, The Sustainable Smallholder and The Regen Academy.
Key practices being promoted include the use of organic fertilisers, improved drip irrigation systems, and the planting of cover crops, measures designed to restore soil health while improving long-term yields.
The programme has direct implications for the food and beverage sector, particularly through its link to Alvalle, PepsiCo’s leading chilled gazpacho brand in Spain.
A portion of the extra virgin olive oil used in Alvalle products is sourced from Jaén, making the region a strategically important node in PepsiCo’s European supply chain.
By investing in regenerative practices at farm level, the company aims to secure more sustainable and resilient ingredient sourcing while supporting rural livelihoods. The initiative aligns with PepsiCo’s broader PepsiCo Positive (pep+) framework, which embeds environmental and social targets into business growth.
Beyond environmental outcomes, VivaOliva places a strong emphasis on attracting new entrants to agriculture. Around 35 new farmers will join this year’s cohort, with dedicated training and support designed to lower barriers to entry and encourage entrepreneurship in the sector.
Returning participants from the first edition will progress to more advanced techniques, including precision water management, pruning optimisation, composting, and organic crop treatments, helping to professionalise operations and drive measurable improvements in farm performance.