MSU extends relationship with Harrington Pepsi

Monday Oct. 1st, 2018

Montana State University announced this week that it has extended its relationship with longtime beverage partner Harrington Pepsi through 2023.

The new deal, which was the result of a competitive solicitation process, grants Harrington the exclusive right to market and sell its soft drinks on campus at all retail operations, dining halls, concession stands, catering, the food truck and 75 percent of vending machines. The initial deal is for five years, with an option to extend for another two. MSU has had a pour-rights deal with the company since 1983.

“Extending this longstanding relationship with Harrington Pepsi allows Auxiliary Services to continue to deliver great products and exceptional service to our students, staff and guests, whether in the dining halls, the Strand Union Building or in the concessions at the fieldhouse  and Bobcat Stadium,” said Duane Morris, senior director of MSU Auxiliary Services.

“Our fantastic relationship with the Bobcats goes back nearly 40 years,” said Chris Reed, general manager of Harrington Pepsi Bozeman. “We are truly proud and honored to have maintained exclusive soft drink beverage pour rights for another multi-year agreement.”

As part of the deal, MSU will receive new flat-screen menu boards and televisions for the Bobcat Stadium concession areas so that football fans can follow the game live when away from their seats.

Also included in the deal is a $100,000 signing bonus from Harrington Pepsi  to be used to enhance MSU’s campus life and facilities. Morris said the money will pay for new furniture for the Bobcat Athletics Academic Center and Refueling Station; new condiment tables and high-top tables at the stadium and fieldhouse ; equipment upgrades for Bobcat Rodeo; and a new Indigenous Foods Program launched by MSU Culinary Services.

Richard Huffman, director of Culinary Services, said the program will help the university create stable demand and new infrastructure for indigenous products, which can sometimes be difficult to source.

“This funding is invaluable and will help not only MSU but also our indigenous partners,” Huffman said.

Leon Costello, MSU athletics director, said Bobcat Athletics was thrilled to continue the relationship with Harrington.

“Their investment in our student-athletes and coaches continue to have a lasting impact,” he said. “We appreciate their support and look forward to many more productive years with Harrington Pepsi.”