Introduction of Pepsi in India
PepsiCo entered India in 1989 and has grown to become one of the largest MNC food and beverage businesses in India. PepsiCo India’s portfolio includes iconic brands like Pepsi, Lay’s, Kurkure, Tropicana, Gatorade and Quaker. In 2010, PepsiCo acquired its two largest bottlers in North America forming Pepsi Beverages Company, a wholly owned subsidiary.
Initial Branding and Export Commitments
When Food Processing Minister Sharad Yadav summoned PepsiCo India’s first CEO Ramesh Vangal in 1990, he said the cola should have a "desi" flavour and Lehar Pepsi would be a good name. During the first year, Pepsi used the Indian brand name Lehar Pepsi, but with the introduction of a new policy in 1991, Pepsi immediately changed its drink name to Pepsi. Pepsi had committed to exporting 50% of total products but instead exported basmati rice, tea, and leather products.
Consumer Perspective
Pepsi and Coca-Cola drinks are available in at least 3 million Indian outlets. We’ll need to wait and watch to see if consumers switch to Campa Cola, said consumer analyst Alok Shah. Srinivas Rao said he still loves Coca-Cola’s Thums Up, its best-selling brand in India.