Why did UNI switch from Pepsi to Coke?

The total value of the contract from Coke was more beneficial to UNI.

How long is the contract in place?

The contract with Coke and Atlantic Bottling (the distributor and primary service provider for Coke) is in effect July 1, 2018 through June 30, 2028.

How does the University/my department benefit from our contract with Coke?

The university receives funds from Coke annually, including commission from the sale of products in the beverage vending machines. Much of the commission is distributed to the general fund and used for general-fund budgeting purposes. Other funds received are allocated to support costs incurred in the major units selling beverages including Department of Residence - Dining and Athletics.  Funds are also provided to NISG, GBPAC and Student Life for their programming.  

How can students benefit from this agreement?

In addition to the funding provided to NISG, Coke will hire a UNI student as a Student Ambassador in their national program who will serve our campus community, but also have the opportunity to participate in activities nationally. 

Why do we have an exclusive agreement with Coke?

With an exclusive agreement, the university has been able to maximize the value of the proposals from beverage providers.

What beverages are included in the agreement with Coke?

The full list of products available from Coke and through our contract is available here. 

Will I be reimbursed for non-Coke beverages consumed in the course of travel?

Yes, employees will be reimbursed for Coke or non-Coke products consumed during travel.

Can beverages for on-campus events be purchased on the procurement card, or on an RFP?

 No.  Beverages need to be purchased from Atlantic Bottling Company (Coke) or on campus (Essentials, Biscotti’s, etc.).

Can I purchase non-Coke products for my personal consumption on campus?

Yes, employees may purchase Coke or non-Coke products for personal consumption on campus. Additionally the contract does not prevent employee groups from purchasing beverages in bulk for personal consumption with personal funds.

Where can my department purchase Coke products?

UNI exclusively purchases its beverage products from Atlantic Bottling. As an individual or department on campus, you may purchase through UNI Catering or the convenience stores on campus (Biscotti’s at the Redeker Center, 23^rd Street Market at the Commons and Essentials at Maucker Union), as their products are purchased directly from Atlantic Bottling. If your department is interested in purchasing directly from Atlantic Bottling, contact Procurement Services for guidance on how to set up an account.  Purchasing from other providers is not allowed.

Can I purchase Coke products off campus (WalMart, Hy-Vee, etc) if I have a Foundation account to pay for the purchase?

No.  Coke products purchased for UNI functions, meetings, or activities must be purchased from one of the identified entities above.

Can I purchase Coke products off campus (WalMart, Hy-Vee, etc) if I am hosting a UNI function, meeting, or activity off-campus?

If the event location is in Cedar Falls/Waterloo, Coke products must be purchased from one of the identified entities above. If the event location is outside of Cedar Falls/Waterloo, Coke products should still be purchased, but may be purchased off campus.

My department is using an Approved Vendor for an on-campus event or business meeting, does the vendor need to provide Coke products?

For events catered by an Approved Vendor, the vendor can provide beverages in bulk (1+ gallons or more) in a reusable container.  If serving individual beverages at the event, those need to be purchased through the University Coke contract, either through UHD or by setting up an account with Coke.

I have performers or special guests coming to campus who have requested non-Coke beverages, am I able to provide these?

Contact Procurement Services on guidance for performers, and special requests for other guests.

My department is sponsoring a competition/trade show/performance that is sponsored by a competing beverage company, e.g. Red Bull Rock Climbing Competition, is this still allowed, and if so is there a special process to be followed?

Contact Procurement Services for guidance relative to this type of event. 

 Our department/student organization would like to have beverages donated for an event. Do they need to be Coke products?

Recognized student organizations can request beverage products for their event through funds and supplies established for this purpose. Contact NISG for more information on how to obtain beverage products from this supply. Other requests should be directed to Procurement Services.

Can I purchase Coke products in large quantities from the UNI convenience stores or UNI Catering?

Yes.  Coke soft drinks and water can be purchased in 12 packs on campus from Biscotti's or the 23rd St. Market.  Both of these operations accept departmental charges. If you would like to order for delivery pre-chilled waters and soft drinks, please contact UNI Catering at 3-2333.  For pricing on catering, please refer to https://catering.uni.edu/ and follow the links to catering.