Pepsi Collaborates With Bobby Flay To Launch 2 Spring Flavors
As the weather warms, Pepsi (originally called Brad's Drink) has made Bobby Flay the spokesperson for its new limited edition flavors: Pepsi Lime and Pepsi Peach. The chef will star in a multipronged campaign that aims to bring two favorite pastimes together — outdoor grilling and drinking soda. Flay makes the case that an ice-cold Pepsi enhances the enjoyment of delicious barbecued meats, and the company will rehash its #BETTERWITHPEPSI hashtag to drive the point home.
Flay explained in a press release that the beverages "can truly elevate the experience" of your backyard barbecue. He attributes this to Pepsi's "complex flavor profile," which he notes is "the perfect counterpoint to the smoky, rich barbecue dishes" like burgers, hot dogs, steaks, and ribs.
As one of the nation's most well-known grill masters, he knows what he speaks. Whether we're turning to Bobby Flay to answer the charcoal versus gas grill debate or to find out how he perfectly melts cheese on his burgers every time, PepsiCo is counting on our respect for his food pairing wisdom to drive sales.
The partnership will feature Flay across TV commercials and social media, on store displays, and in undisclosed "stunts" to culminate on Memorial Day and on into the summer peak of grilling season. The brand cites a Harris Poll study showing nearly "80% of Americans prefer outdoor BBQs to dining out" — matching that activity with fruity thirst-quenchers endorsed by Flay has all the makings for success (per Omaha Steaks).
Pepsi's lime and peach flavors are meant for epic barbecues
The new flavors are inspired by and geared towards summer grilling. The refreshing duo was created to complement smoky foods cooked over an open flame. They combine the familiar crisp taste of Pepsi with what the company describes as "popular and nostalgic summertime flavor profiles." Pepsi Lime boosts the soda's already citrusy notes with a sweet and tangy pop, and Pepsi Peach is meant to evoke the essence of a ripe summer peach. Both will be available in 12-ounce cans and 20-ounce bottles.
Along with various supporting advertisements, the releases will be bolstered with two strategic promotions — a giveaway and a cashback offer. For what's being called the Epic Summer BBQ Giveaway, contestants will be able to enter to win a barbecue party for themselves and their guests.
Entry will be via either scanning an in-store code or on the BetterWithPepsi.com website where visitors can access some of Flay's exclusive recipes. No purchase will be necessary to enter the contest.
To earn cashback, customers will have the opportunity to submit their receipts (also via scanning a code or online), showing that they purchased a Pepsi product along with a food item. This can be from restaurants, fast food drive-thrus, supermarkets, convenience stores, or any food service or retail location. If you enter, you'll be eligible to get up to $2.50 sent directly to your Venmo or PayPal account.