Wake Forest has selected Pepsi Bottling Ventures (PBV) as an exclusive beverage supplier. The new 10-year pouring rights agreement with PBV represents an inclusive approach to providing University-wide collaborative opportunities to corporate partners. The contract expands Wake Forest’s longstanding relationship with Pepsi beyond Athletics into a comprehensive collaboration serving Reynolda Campus, Wake Downtown and The Graylyn Estate.

“This relationship represents far more than a beverage agreement. It is an investment in the people, values and future of Wake Forest,” said Wake Forest University President Peter Rodriguez. “It reflects a shared commitment to supporting what makes Wake Forest exceptional. From scholarships and sustainability initiatives to expanded career opportunities for our students, this collaboration demonstrates what it means to invest in the long-term success of our University.”

The selection also highlights a strong regional alignment, as PBV operates two manufacturing facilities in Winston-Salem. The agreement offers valuable support for a range of University priorities, including student scholarships, paid internships and brand ambassador opportunities, as well as sustainability initiatives, athletics support and campus programming. 

Some benefits of the partnership include:  

• beverage solutions for students, faculty, staff, fans and visitors, including expanded low-sugar and zero-sugar options;
• campus event collaborations and experiences;
• student success programs that include scholarships, paid internships, student marketers, full-time career pathways and NIL support;
• competitive pricing and equipment upgrades across all campus units, including the newest technology in full-service vending;
• market activations and co-branding in retail and Athletic event marketing that extend the Wake Forest brand; 
• investments in sustainability programs, including waste reduction initiatives, recycling collection infrastructure and an internship, with a focus on waste reduction and diversion at athletic venues.

“What makes this partnership impactful is the collaborative effort behind it,” said Barry Faircloth, deputy athletic director for Development and Partnerships. “Colleagues from across campus helped identify a partner that could deliver value well beyond beverages, creating opportunities for student learning and career development while enhancing services and experiences across the Wake Forest community.”

Pepsi Bottling Ventures was selected following a formal request for proposal (RFP) process in which several suppliers were considered and evaluated. A committee conducted a collaborative review of suppliers, incorporating perspectives from across the University in the final decision. The year-long evaluation included input from representatives in the student body, Athletics, Campus Life, Finance, Office of General Counsel, Hospitality and Auxiliary Services, and Procurement. The Campus Life Advisory Council (CLAC), composed of undergraduate and graduate students, also played a significant role in advising the committee. 

As part of the agreement, Pepsi Bottling Ventures will become an exclusive beverage provider for dining, retail, vending and athletics locations. Beverage selections will include a variety of soft drinks, water, tea, sports drinks and other products from PepsiCo and partner brands, such as Pepsi, Mountain Dew, Gatorade, Dr Pepper, Starbucks, Poppi, Aquafina, Lipton Tea, and Celsius.

“We’re honored to expand our pouring rights with Wake Forest University and proud of how strongly our values align,” said Derek Hill, president and CEO of Pepsi Bottling Ventures. “This 10-year expansion goes beyond beverages, supporting Demon Deacons through opportunities and initiatives that advance student success, athletics, sustainability and campus life.”

About Wake Forest University

Wake Forest University’s motto, Pro Humanitate, reflects a commitment to academic excellence and to using ideas, knowledge and talents on behalf of humanity. The University’s Winston-Salem, N.C., campus is home to nearly 9,000 students, with more studying at Wake Forest locations in Charlotte, N.C., Washington, D.C., and around the world. In addition to the undergraduate College, the University encompasses the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, as well as Schools of Business, Law, Medicine, Divinity and Professional Studies. Founded in 1834, Wake Forest embraces a University-wide approach to developing leaders of character and integrity. Learn more at www.wfu.edu.

About Pepsi Bottling Ventures

Pepsi Bottling Ventures (PBV) is the largest independent manufacturer and distributor of PepsiCo beverages in the United States. Founded in 1943 and headquartered in Raleigh, NC, PBV operates multiple manufacturing and distribution centers across its multi-state territory, including two manufacturing facilities in Winston-Salem, NC. The company delivers a broad portfolio of iconic, emerging and partner brands, including Pepsi, Mountain Dew, Gatorade, Dr Pepper, Starbucks, Poppi, Aquafina, Lipton Tea, Celsius and Alani Nu. 

A joint venture of PepsiCo and Suntory Beverage & Food, Pepsi Bottling Ventures is committed to being a destination company where careers thrive, drinks delight, partners win and owners grow value. 

With more than eight decades of community partnership and 3,000 employees committed to unbottling their potential, Pepsi Bottling Ventures is refreshing the way it serves customers, partners, and communities every day. Learn more at pepsibottlingventures.com.