Hotel chain with hundreds of California locations makes controversial change to menu

The cola wars just claimed another casualty: Pepsi is out, Coke is in at Marriott hotels across California.

Marriott International, which operates more than 600 properties statewide, announced Wednesday it is replacing Pepsi products with Coca-Cola after its 34-year partnership with PepsiCo came to an end.

The hotel giant — which includes luxury brands such as The Ritz-Carlton and St. Regis — has signed a new global agreement with Coca-Cola that extends beyond soft drinks to include the company’s growing lineup of hydration and functional beverages.

The Coca-Cola deal will include more than just soda, encompassing the brand’s range of hydration and functional beverages, per a release from the company.

“This agreement brings together two iconic brands with a shared commitment to quality, consistency, and creating memorable experiences,” Anthony Capuano, President and Chief Executive Officer of Marriott International, said.

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“We are focused on delivering the products our guests and Marriott Bonvoy Members know and love, better meeting guest preferences, and creating economic benefits for owners and franchise operators across our system,” he added.

Guests will soon see Coke brands across rooms, lounges, restaurants, and meeting spaces at more than 10,000 properties in 146 countries and territories.

Henrique Braun, CEO of The Coca-Cola Company, called the announcement “a great day.”

Reactions to the deal on social media appeared to be mixed.

“So excited for this announcement,” one person wrote. “No! Bad move. Pepsi products are much better,” another added.

The hotel chain first started serving Pepsi at its hotels in 1992, and then in 2018 signed a multi-year agreement, expanding on their 25+ year relationship, a statement read at the time.