Marlins Partner with PepsiCo to Enhance Stadium Concessions
The Miami Marlins have announced a multi-year partnership with PepsiCo, set to take effect for the 2025 MLB season. The deal will make PepsiCo the exclusive provider of non-alcoholic beverages at loanDepot park, marking a significant shift in the stadium’s concessions lineup.
PepsiCo Beverages to Replace Coca-Cola Offerings
Under this agreement, fans attending Marlins games will have access to a variety of PepsiCo beverage brands, including Pepsi, Mountain Dew, Gatorade, Sierra Mist, and Aquafina. This partnership ends Coca-Cola’s tenure as the stadium’s beverage provider, aligning the Marlins with several other Major League Baseball franchises that have transitioned to PepsiCo products.
Emphasis on Local and Latin American Cuisine
Beyond soft drinks, the Marlins are enhancing their food offerings with an increased focus on local and Latin American cuisine. As part of the “Local Eats” initiative, the team is collaborating with South Florida-based restaurants to bring more diverse menu options to the ballpark. This move is expected to cater to the region’s multicultural fan base, providing a more authentic dining experience.
Enhancing the Fan Experience
The partnership supports the Marlins’ broader strategy of improving the in-game experience. With PepsiCo’s expertise in foodservice innovation, fans can anticipate new beverage options and potential digital ordering enhancements in the coming seasons. The introduction of regionally inspired food choices further underscores the franchise’s commitment to delivering a unique and engaging ballpark atmosphere.
Industry Implications
This transition reflects a growing trend in professional sports, where teams are re-evaluating long-standing supplier agreements to better align with fan preferences. PepsiCo’s expanding influence in the MLB beverage space underscores its competitive positioning against Coca-Cola in stadium partnerships.
For FMCG professionals, this deal highlights the increasing importance of localized product offerings and strategic brand alignments in the food and beverage sector. As teams look to differentiate themselves through curated concessions, suppliers with diversified portfolios and regional expertise stand to gain a competitive edge.