Diversity Divide: PepsiCo vs. Coca-Cola

In the world of soft drinks, PepsiCo and Coca-Cola have long been fierce competitors, but a new battle is brewing – this time, over their diversity and inclusion programs. While both companies have made strides in promoting DEI, the approaches they've taken have led to distinct outcomes and public perceptions. Let's dive into the differences and explore how these strategies may impact their respective businesses and brand reputations.



PepsiCo's Targeted Approach

PepsiCo has taken a more targeted approach to promoting diversity and inclusion, setting clear goals and initiatives to increase representation among underrepresented groups. By 2025, they aim to:

- Achieve 50% women in global management roles
- Increase U.S. Black and Hispanic managerial representation to 10%
- Increase Black representation in managerial roles by 30% and Hispanic representation by 10%

To achieve these aims, PepsiCo plans to:

- Support and partner with historically Black universities and National Hispanic organizations
- Elevate their recruiting process under a DEI framework by engaging minority-owned search firms
- Provide additional training and mentorship programs to integrate a diversity work culture at all levels

Coca-Cola's Holistic Approach

Coca-Cola, on the other hand, has taken a more holistic approach to diversity and inclusion, focusing on creating an inclusive culture and reviewing policies to eliminate biases and inequities. By 2030, they aim to:

- Have women hold 50% of senior leadership roles
- Have race and ethnicity representation reflect national census data at all levels

Coca-Cola's strategy includes:

- Creating affinity, allyship, community, and celebration to inspire and advocate for inclusion
- Reviewing business, human rights, and employment policies and practices to eliminate biases and inequities
- Establishing a Global Women's Leadership Council to accelerate the development and movement of female talent into roles of increasing responsibility and influence
- Creating employee inclusion networks focused on creating an inclusive workplace culture

While Coca-Cola's approach has led to improvements in diversity and inclusion, their lack of public commitment and perceived support for far-right organizations have negatively impacted their brand reputation and market penetration, particularly among minority communities.