Here’s something that I think most people will view in a positive light…
In this post:
Marriott makes the switch from Pepsi to Coke
Since 1992, Marriott has had an exclusive agreement with Pepsi for providing soft drinks for its properties globally. That agreement wasn’t put into place because customers prefer Pepsi, but instead, because Pepsi was willing to give Marriott a better deal. Specifically, Coca-Cola wasn’t willing to extend Marriott a loan at the time, and that was non-negotiable for Marriott.
That will finally be changing, as Marriott has revealed that it will be switching to Coke for products globally, as flagged by View from the Wing.
It’s funny, because I specifically remember when Marriott took over Starwood, and then Starwood made the switch from Coke to Pepsi, which many of us weren’t happy about. Here’s what the beverage giant had to say in a statement about this latest development:
“The Coca-Cola Company is proud to be working with Marriott International’s global portfolio. We look forward to playing our role in creating a great guest experience across the world’s largest hotel company. Marriott’s decision reflects the strength of our brands and the preference their guests have for our total beverage portfolio. This partnership underscores our shared commitment to quality, consistency, and elevating every moment of the stay.”
I’m curious what prompted this Pepsi to Coke switch
Marriott isn’t officially sharing why it’s making the switch from Pepsi to Coke. Did Marriott realize that only having Pepsi products negatively impacted the guest experience, or was Coke finally willing to give Marriott a better deal?
In an email to hotel owners about the change, Marriott stated that over 70% of Bonvoy members prefer Coke over Pepsi, which is why the change is being made. So I do think guest preference is a strong consideration here, and maybe Marriott could get a slightly better deal than in the past from Coke.
Personally I’m happy to see this change. There are definitely more people out there who prefer Coke to Pepsi, it’s just rare to see Marriott actually concerned about what customers prefer (rather than what they’ll put up with). 😉
Bottom line
Marriott will be making the switch from Pepsi to Coke, after 34 years of exclusivity with the number two beverage giant. Marriott claims that 70%+ of Bonvoy members prefer Pepsi to Coke, which sounds about right. While there was obviously some bad blood between the two brands in the past, I’m sure most guests will be happy to see this.
What do you make of Marriott making the switch from Pepsi to Coke?
One junk food substituted for another .
I'm kind of surprised that Pepsi is still as relevant as they are. Sure some people prefer Pepsi, but virtually all soda addicts (like myself) prefer Coke. Come on Hyatt, do your thing!
Who in their right mind drinks this?
Gave up drinking soda decades ago, mostly, but for the couple of cans I do indulge in each year I'd prefer Coke. Finally Marriott does something positive.
Will dual sourcing be maintained, or now Coca-Cola exclusive?
Pepsi tastes better though.
Oof. No.
Your move, Hyatt
I think this is fake news… it resulted from a Reddit post on April fools…… can anyone check with MI HQ?
The well-known and renowned news website Viewfromthewing has also reported on this change. So no fake news.
But joking aside: a few local and trade newspapers have reported on the move. It seems to be true.
If VFTW reported it, how big were Coke's breasts?
Air Canada made the switch to Pepsi on April 1st, so I'm glad at least my hotel chain will be serving Coke soon!
Hallelujah!! I can finally stop the BYOC routine every time I stay at a Marriott property.
Hahahaha, Marriott didn't do this for customers. Coke undoubtedly gave them better terms than Pepsi.
Ugh. I’m a Pepsi person and that’s one thing I liked about Marriott. Especially in their lounges. This is devastating.
Can they switch over today? I’m at a Marriott right now and I was stuck getting Pepsi products this morning. Barf.