Several weeks ago, we learned how Marriott will be making the switch from Pepsi to Coke across its properties globally. The timeline wasn’t clear at the time, so there’s now an update, as we should start seeing this phased rollout immediately. I imagine most people will be happy to hear this, but of course not everyone will agree!
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 in 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 will be switching to Coke for products globally, including in guest rooms, restaurants, lounges, and meeting events. The phased rollout is beginning today, and should be live at properties globally over the coming months. This includes carbonated soft drinks and a growing range of hydration and functional beverages.
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 Marriott CEO Anthony Capuano had to say about this development:
“This agreement brings together two iconic brands with a shared commitment to quality, consistency, and creating memorable experiences. We are focused on delivering the products our guests and Marriott Bonvoy Members know and love, better meeting guest preferences, and creating economic benefits for owners and franchise operators across our system. We’re excited to collaborate with The Coca‑Cola Company to deliver their great products in more places.”
MARRIOTT HAS A COMMITMENT TO QUALITY AND CONSISTENCY?!?!?!? Sorry, I just spat out my Diet Coke. Anyway…
Meanwhile here’s what Coca-Cola CEO Henrique Braun had to say:
“This is a great day. On behalf of the entire Coca-Cola system, we’re excited about our future with Marriott and the opportunity to provide travelers more of the brands they love. From sparkling beverages to juices, hydration and dairy, we’re offering guests options for their beverage needs throughout their entire visit.”
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 is 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.
The rollout is starting effective immediately (in July 2026), and these beverages should be found at properties globally in the coming months.
What do you make of Marriott making the switch from Pepsi to Coke?