Global beverage giant PepsiCo is looking to expand its presence in the Philippines with new product launches and investments in local manufacturing as it banks on the country’s young consumer base and growing demand for functional and affordable beverages.
Aditya Sheoran, PepsiCo General Manager for Beverages in the Philippines, Malaysia and Singapore, said the company is seeing double-digit growth in the Philippines as it continues to evolve its portfolio to serve changing consumer preferences with a stronger focus on wellness, accessibility and sustainability. The Philippines is one of PepsiCo’s largest markets in Southeast Asia, and its latest launches include Pepsi Zero Sugar Lime, Mountain Dew Zero Sugar and Gatorade powder, a first-of-its-kind format in Asia that allows consumers to ‘rip, mix and drink’ for hydration at a more accessible price point.
“The powder format is a great way to democratize our brands. It helps us reach more consumers at a lower price point while promoting hydration and active lifestyles,” added Sheoran.
The company is also planning to roll out smaller and more affordable packaging options to make its products more accessible to rural consumers while continuing to push for multi-serve formats like 2-litre bottles for families.
In the Philippines, PepsiCo brands are either ranked No.1 or No.2 across most beverage segments that include cola, energy drink, flavored drinks and sports drinks. Demand for energy drinks and electrolyte beverages is also rising in the country.
PepsiCo is also ramping up its sustainability initiatives under its global pep+ (PepsiCo Positive) program – via plastic waste collection, reducing plastic use via light weighting, and greater use of renewable energy.