Villanova selects Coca-Cola as new beverage provider

Dec. 22, 2008- Villanova University announced today that it has entered into a long-term contract with The Philadelphia Coca-Cola Bottling Company. All beverages in the dining halls, convenience stores, cafes and vending machines will now feature Coca-Cola products starting in January, replacing the Pepsi products offered for the last several years.

“Access to a wide variety of products is important to our students and Coca-Cola brings to our campus an extensive selection of beverage products for our students to enjoy,” said Timothy Dietzler, Director of Dining Services for Villanova University.

Coca-Cola products include the company’s signature beverages-Coca-Cola classic, Diet Coke, Coke Zero and Sprite-along with Dasani bottled water, Minute Maid juices, V-8 juices, Fuze, Odwalla Smoothies, Nestea, Gold Peak Teas, Hi-C products, Fanta flavors, Evian Water and Barq’s Root Beer, all of which are included in the contract. Financial figures and the specific length of the contract were not disclosed at the time of the announcement.

The contract also makes Coca-Cola an official sponsor and partner of Villanova University Athletics, adding to the University’s long list of corporate sponsors that support its financial strength.

“We are thrilled to welcome Coca-Cola to the Villanova Athletics family,” said Vince Nicastro, Director of Athletics for Villanova University. “… The resources generated through this relationship will be crucial to directly supporting the efforts of our student-athletes as they strive for excellence in their studies and their sport.”

All new Coca-Cola vending machines and fountain-drink dispensers will be installed over the next month and continuously maintained by The Philadelphia Coca-Cola Bottling Company.