Crystal Pepsi appears headed for a comeback, that much is clear. But details on when and how the 1990s-era cola will return remain murky.
The clear cola was first introduced in 1992 but lasted only a few years. Despite its short lifespan, the drink apparently gained a loyal following of consumers who have lobbied PepsiCo to bring it back.
On Tuesday, the cola giant sent its strongest signal yet that Crystal might soon be available again by responding to one of its biggest fans, competitive eating star Kevin Strahle. Mr. Strahle, who goes by the name L.A. Beast on Twitter, tweeted an image of a message he said he received from Pepsi that stated: "We definitely hear you and all your followers and we think you'll all be happy with what's in store."
A PepsiCo spokeswoman confirmed the authenticity of the message to Ad Age. She declined to provide other details, but said "we think Crystal Pepsi fans are going to be happy with what we have planned."
The apparently imminent launch could follow Coca-Cola's move late last year to bring back Surge, a 1990s-era citrus-flavored soda. The company in September made the brand available for sale on Amazon.com, pointing to lobbying from fan groups such as one called the "The Surge Movement," which has more than 200,000 Facebook fans.
Ever since that video of the guy drinking an old one, I feel sick hearing the name "Crystal Pepsi". But, I do want to understand the hype when it comes back.
nnnn. They got publicity after the guy puked Crystal Pepsi on a canvas, sold it for $5,000, and used that money and donations to make 15 billboards to bring back Crystal Pepsi.
nnnn. They got publicity after the guy puked Crystal Pepsi on a canvas, sold it for $5,000, and used that money and donations to make 15 billboards to bring back Crystal Pepsi.
Crystal Pepsi was horrible