Pepsi, also known as Pepsi-Cola, is a carbonated soft drink manufactured by PepsiCo
[2]. Serving as PepsiCo's flagship product, it is one of the most recognizable and valuable beverage brands globally
[2][7].
Overview#
PepsiCo, Inc. is a global leader in the food and beverage
industry, with a wide range of popular brands. Pepsi itself is a cola-flavored carbonated beverage that competes directly with Coca-Cola
[2]. PepsiCo's portfolio includes a diverse array of food and beverage products, divided into several business divisions
[6]. These divisions include PepsiCo Beverages North America, Frito-Lay North America, Quaker Foods North America, Latin America, Europe, Africa, Middle East and South Asia (AMESA), and Asia Pacific, Australia, New Zealand and China (APAC)
[6]. PepsiCo leverages its extensive distribution network and marketing capabilities to maintain a strong market presence
[3]. The company's commitment to innovation and sustainability further strengthens its brand reputation
[3].
History#
Pepsi was initially created in 1893 by Caleb Bradham, a pharmacist in New Bern, North Carolina, and was first known as "Brad's Drink"
[2]. In 1898, Bradham renamed his drink Pepsi-Cola
[2]. The company was officially founded on August 28, 1898
[6]. Pepsi-Cola went through several ownership changes and financial difficulties in its early years
[6]. In 1931, the company was acquired by Charles Guth, who reformulated the drink and revitalized the brand
[6]. Pepsi experienced significant growth in the mid-20th century, particularly under the leadership of Alfred Steele, who introduced innovative marketing strategies
[2]. In 1965, Pepsi-Cola Company merged with Frito-Lay, Inc., leading to the formation of PepsiCo, Inc.
[6][7]. This merger expanded PepsiCo's product portfolio and strengthened its position in the food and beverage industry
[7].
Products and Services#
PepsiCo offers a wide variety of Pepsi products, including Pepsi Zero Sugar, Pepsi Vanilla, and Pepsi Wild Cherry
[1]. The company also produces other soft drinks, such as Mountain Dew, Starry, and Schweppes
[8]. In addition to soft drinks, PepsiCo owns numerous food and snack brands, including Frito-Lay, Quaker Oats, and Tropicana
[7]. This diversification allows PepsiCo to cater to a broad range of consumer preferences
[3]. PepsiCo continuously innovates to introduce new flavors and product variations
[3].
Business Operations#
Revenue Model and Pricing#
PepsiCo generates revenue through the sale of its beverage and food products
[3]. The company employs various pricing strategies, including competitive pricing, promotional offers, and value pricing
[7]. PepsiCo also utilizes different distribution channels, including retail stores, restaurants, and online platforms
[5].
Key Financial Metrics#
In 2023, Pepsi was the second most popular soft drink brand in the world
[2]. PepsiCo's annual revenue in 2023 was $93.92 billion
[7]. The company's earnings per share in the previous year were $6.05
[7]. PepsiCo has consistently increased its dividend for over 50 years, demonstrating financial stability
[7]. As of February 5, 2026, PepsiCo's market capitalization was $229.07 billion, and its share price was $167.53
[7].
Employees and Locations#
PepsiCo is a global company with operations in numerous countries
[3]. The company employs hundreds of thousands of people worldwide
[4]. PepsiCo's global headquarters are located in Harrison, New York
[6][7].
Technology and Infrastructure#
PepsiCo utilizes advanced technology and infrastructure to support its operations, including manufacturing, distribution, and supply chain management
[3]. The company invests in research and development to innovate new products and improve existing ones
[3].
Leadership and Management#
Ramon Luis Laguarta is the current CEO of PepsiCo
[7]. PepsiCo is a publicly traded company
[6].
Market Position#
PepsiCo holds a significant share of the global beverage and snack market
[7]. The company's main competitors include The Coca-Cola Company, Nestlé, and Unilever
[7]. PepsiCo differentiates itself through its diverse product portfolio, strong brand recognition, and extensive distribution network
[3]. Pepsi consistently ranks among the top soft drink brands worldwide
[2].
Funding and Investments#
As a publicly traded company, PepsiCo raises capital through the issuance of stock
[6]. The company also invests in acquisitions and partnerships to expand its business
[6].
Controversies and Challenges#
PepsiCo has faced scrutiny regarding its environmental impact, including water usage and packaging waste
[6]. The company has also been criticized for its use of genetically modified ingredients and its impact on rainforests
[6]. PepsiCo is committed to addressing these challenges through sustainable practices and responsible sourcing
[3].
Impact and Legacy#
PepsiCo has had a significant impact on the food and beverage industry and has become an integral part of American pop culture
[7]. The company's innovative marketing campaigns and product development strategies have shaped consumer preferences
[2]. PepsiCo's commitment to sustainability and social responsibility reflects its evolving role in society
[3].
Future Outlook#
PepsiCo continues to focus on innovation, sustainability, and expansion into new markets
[3]. The company aims to strengthen its position as a global leader in the food and beverage industry
[3]. PepsiCo is adapting to changing consumer preferences by offering healthier options and reducing its environmental footprint
[3].
