As one of the largest food and beverage companies in the world, PepsiCo has a rich history that spans over a century. From its humble beginnings as a small snack food company in North Carolina to the global corporation it is today, the story of PepsiCo is one that is worth exploring in the classroom.
Teaching students about the history of PepsiCo can be a fun and engaging way to help them understand how businesses evolve and respond to consumer demands over time. Here are a few ideas for incorporating the story of PepsiCo into your lesson plans:
1. Start with the basics: Before diving into the history of PepsiCo specifically, make sure students have a basic understanding of the soft drink industry and the different companies and brands that make up the market. You can even have them conduct a taste test of different cola brands and compare the flavors and branding.
2. Explore the early years: Discuss the origins of PepsiCo, which dates back to 1898 when a pharmacist named Caleb Bradham invented a new cola recipe and began selling it in his drugstore. The drink was initially called “Brad’s Drink,” but was renamed Pepsi-Cola in 1903.
3. Discuss the Great Depression: The Great Depression was a time of extreme hardship for many Americans, but it also presented unique opportunities for businesses that could offer affordable products. In 1931, PepsiCo launched a new marketing campaign called “Nickel Nickel,” which encouraged consumers to buy a 12-ounce bottle of Pepsi for just five cents. This helped the company gain market share against its main competitor, Coca-Cola, which had a more expensive pricing strategy.
4. Talk about the rise of snack foods: In the 1960s, PepsiCo began diversifying its product line by acquiring other snack food brands like Frito-Lay and Tropicana. Discuss how this move helped the company expand into new markets and appeal to a wider range of consumers.
5. Explore modern marketing tactics: Today, PepsiCo is known for its innovative marketing strategies, such as celebrity endorsements and interactive digital campaigns. Show students examples of some of PepsiCo’s most famous ads, like the “Pepsi Challenge” and the Pepsi Max “Uncle Drew” series.
