With Pepsi deciding not to renew their partnership deal with the New York Mets, the team turned to the natural rival for a Citi Field Signature Partnership deal: Coca-Cola.
Financial terms of the deal were not revealed.
Pepsi was a big part of Citi Field branding since the ballpark opened in 2009. The huge Pepsi sign in right field was visible to most fans, and the beverage giant sponsored the Pepsi Porch underneath as well. Though specifics regarding Coca-Cola’s presence in the ballpark were not released, you can bet there will an iconic cursive Coca-Cola replacing the Pepsi sign. In addition, it was announced a Coca-Cola themed seating area in right field would replace the Pepsi Porch. And, of course, Coke products will now be served throughout the ballpark. The deal will also extend past Citi Field, as Coke plans a new line of 12-ounce Coca-Cola cans celebrating the Mets’ 2015 League Championship.
“We are excited to partner with Coca-Cola as we align our brand with the most popular soft drink brand in the world,” said Mets Chief Operating Officer Jeff Wilpon. “Like the Mets, Coca-Cola has a very loyal fan base, and we are proud to partner with them and look forward to serving their products to our fans for many years to come. In addition, we look forward to implementing exciting new marketing programs at Citi Field and in the New York region.”
“Coca-Cola and the Mets share a passion to refresh baseball fans and enhance their entertainment,” said Sandy Douglas, President, Coca-Cola North America. “This partnership combines our iconic brand with a championship caliber team right here in the business and sports capital of the world. We are excited by the innovative marketing programs we have developed for the 2016 season, and are certain that they will inspire moments of optimism and happiness both on and off of Citi Field.”