The latest food and beverage industry news and trend analysis

PepsiCo, via UK bottling partner Carlsberg Britvic, has unveiled a limited-edition Pepsi Max Gingerbread flavour, expanding its Zero Sugar portfolio in time for the festive trading period. The seasonal SKU is available now exclusively through Tesco stores nationwide.

The innovation blends classic cola with ginger, cinnamon, and vanilla notes—flavours closely associated with holiday consumption moments. Positioned to capitalise on consumer demand for indulgent yet low-sugar soft drink options, the launch also aligns with broader seasonal and nostalgia-driven trends gaining traction in the carbonates category.

Available in multiple pack formats—including 500ml (RRP £2.15), 600ml (RRP £2.25), 2L (RRP £3.75), and 8x330ml multipacks (RRP £6.89)—the product has been developed to meet varied shopper missions, from top-up and impulse buys to larger take-home and sharing occasions.

According to Carlsberg Britvic, the launch reflects continued investment in flavour-led innovation within the sugar-free cola segment, and aims to drive incremental sales during Q4—a key period for soft drinks, as consumers increasingly seek affordable, festive treats.

This latest flavour extension underscores PepsiCo’s strategic push to grow market share in the zero-sugar space while reinforcing brand relevance through seasonal, limited-time offerings.