Rumors that Coke was coming back to the University of Arkansas campus are, indeed, the real thing.
The UA recently revealed a written notice of intent to award its exclusive, non-alcoholic beverage sponsorship to Coca-Cola, and on Monday the university announced it was in the final stages of the 10-year deal to make Coke the official drink of the Razorbacks once again. The deal will take effect on July 1. Coca-Cola had been the official beverage provider of the Hogs for decades before former athletics director Jeff Long switched to Pepsi in 2012.
For many Hog fans, it had seemed like decades since Pepsi products became the only soft drink and bottled water options available at UA sporting events.
“We are glad to have the opportunity to partner with The Coca-Cola Company and Ozarks Coca-Cola Bottling Company to bring Coke products to our campus and athletic events,” said interim Chancellor Charles Robinson in a statement. “It’s important to point out that this new agreement will also benefit our students in the form of internship opportunities and funding for student scholarships. Funding will also support sustainability efforts on campus. I’m grateful to the evaluation committee and to all those at the university who have played a role in establishing this new partnership.”
Coca-Cola was selected to be the university’s exclusive sponsor after submitting the best overall proposal in a competitive selection process, according to a UA press release. Once completed, the Coca-Cola agreement will consist of an initial fixed-length term and a series of annual renewal options that will run through June 2032.
As part of the contract, a variety of Coca-Cola cold beverages will be available on campus, including Coke, Coke Zero, Diet Coke, Sprite, Fanta, Dasani, BodyArmor and Minute Maid. In addition, Dr Pepper and Monster brands, distributed in the region by Ozarks Coca-Cola, also will be available. Gatorade will continue to be the official “Isotonic Drink Sponsor of Razorback Athletics.”
Coke will make its way back to campus as well, at campus dining facilities and vending machines. As part of the agreement, the university will recognize Coca-Cola as the exclusive beverage sponsor in various university athletic venues such as Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium, Bud Walton Arena, Baum-Walker Stadium, Bogle Park, Barnhill Arena and John McDonnell Field. Coca-Cola will have opportunities to showcase its brand on campus through sponsored events and initiatives, the UA said.
“For decades, fans cheered on the Razorbacks while enjoying a beverage from Coca-Cola,” Vice Chancellor and Director of Athletics Hunter Yurachek said. “With this new partnership, students, faculty, staff members and fans will once again have access to a variety of Coca-Cola products whether they are attending class, visiting campus or ‘Calling the Hogs’ at one of our athletics venues. We are appreciative of the investment Ozarks Coca-Cola and The Coca-Cola Company have made in the future of our University and the continued success of Razorback athletics.”
The contract’s total value, including ancillary benefits, will not be released until final negotiations have been completed.
“The Ozarks Coca-Cola family, along with The Coca-Cola Company, are honored to bring that special Coca-Cola refreshment back to the University of Arkansas,” said Sally Hargis, chairman of the board for Ozarks Coca-Cola Bottling. “We understand the strength of Razorback nation and what the university means to our surrounding community. We are excited to show our commitment to the university through strong work ethic, pride, professionalism and tireless service to students, fans, faculty, staff and guests. Let’s call those Hogs!”
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