Launching nationwide in the US in April, the beverage will come in two 12oz slim can flavors, original and vanilla. It will have nearly double the amount of caffeine than a regular Pepsi cola (which has 38mg per 12 oz), creating a Pepsi with around the same amount of caffeine as a cup of coffee.
While Coca-Cola has already launched Coca-Cola Plus Coffee in a number of global markets, PepsiCo tracks the beginning of its work in the space to the 1996 launch of Pepsi Kona - a short-lived cola-coffee blend which was tested in select US markets.
PepsiCo says the time is now right to launch a similar product, tapping into the popularity of RTD iced coffee products. While Pepsi Café Original seeks to offer an alternative to regular coffee – albeit with sweeter caramel undertones – Pepsi Café Vanilla looks to offer a more indulgent alternative with a sweeter and creamier beverage.
Todd Kaplan, VP of Marketing, Pepsi, said: "We know that the consumers today are looking for products that meet the needs of energy, indulgence, and refreshment during that afternoon pick-me-up occasion.
"We are confident that cola fans, iced coffee drinkers and anyone in need of an extra caffeine boost will love the unexpected flavor medley of roasted coffee infused into the refreshing, crisp flavor of Pepsi."
