Pepsi seeks healthier brand for Beckham tie-up

by Jemima Bokaie, Marketing 08-Jul-08, 08:00

LONDON - The future of David Beckham's global sponsorship deal with Pepsi hinges on whether the soft-drinks firm can find the footballer a healthy brand to promote.

According to industry insiders, the former England captain, who is in talks with Pepsi, could walk away when his current contract finishes at the end of the year unless an appropriate brand is found. It has been speculated that Beckham wishes to launch his own water brand and range of healthy products.

Pepsi's tie with Beckham has been crucial in closing the sales gap between the brand and rival Coca-Cola. He recently starred with footballers Cesc Fabregas and Frank Lampard in a TV ad to promote social networking site pepsiyouniverse.com.

Beckham, who moved from Real Madrid to US side LA Galaxy last year, also has deals with Adidas, Motorola, Giorgio Armani and pen brand Sharpie.

A spokesman for the footballer confirmed that he is negotiating the Pepsi contract. Pepsi refused to comment.