Why PepsiCo is Expanding Regenerative Olive Farming in Spain

PepsiCo has expanded its agricultural sustainability efforts with the second edition of VivaOliva, delivered through The PepsiCo Foundation.

The programme, which first launched in 2025, focuses on transforming olive groves in Jaén, Spain through regenerative agriculture practices that could reshape how ingredients are sourced for the food and beverage sector.

The initiative aims to work with 200 farmers across the region, providing them with knowledge and resources to implement regenerative farming methods.

This approach represents a trend within the food and drink industry, where companies are investing in sustainable sourcing practices to secure their supply chains while reducing environmental impact.

Regenerative agriculture for olive production

The VivaOliva initiative delivers practical training alongside hands-on support in regenerative agriculture techniques specifically designed for olive groves.

The programme targets improvements in soil health, water use optimisation and conservation efforts that contribute to broader environmental protection goals.

The PepsiCo Foundation has partnered with Earthworm Foundation, The Sustainable Smallholder and The Regen Academy to deliver the project.

These collaborations will result in three field-based thematic sessions in Jaén, where participating farmers can learn and experience regenerative practices firsthand.

Additionally, eight workshops and personalised technical advice will be provided to help farmers transition to more sustainable farming models.

The programme also addresses economic inclusion within the agricultural sector, supporting generational renewal in rural areas and encouraging professionalisation through sustainable farming practices.

 “Through the second edition of VivaOliva, we aim to continue and expand the programme, reinforcing our commitment to Jaén’s olive oil producers," says Andrea Pont, PepsiCo Foundation Programs Lead for Europe.

“We want to support them so they can apply practical knowledge and regenerative agriculture techniques in their daily work, moving towards a more resilient, sustainable and environmentally respectful olive-growing model.”

Expanding farmer participation and techniques

Approximately 35 new farmers will join those who initially participated in the 2025 project.

These farmers will implement regenerative practices including organic fertiliser use to restore soil health, enhanced drip irrigation systems and cover crop planting.

For the food and drink industry, such practices could mean more sustainable ingredient sourcing and improved supply chain resilience.

The PepsiCo Foundation is prioritising entrepreneurship development and engaging younger generations in farming.

The programme continues work from 2025, training young people and newcomers to agriculture by providing tools, knowledge and opportunities to develop their professional skills in olive cultivation.

Farmers from the first edition will progress to more advanced practices related to soil health and fertility, water management, pruning techniques, organic treatments and composting methods.

“Our main goal is for farmers to see tangible results in their crops and surroundings," says Clara Labaste, Field Work Coordinator at Earthworm Foundation.

“It is particularly positive that, in this second edition, farmers who participated last year can continue expanding their regenerative knowledge and techniques, as it shows they appreciate and value the benefits that regenerative agriculture brings to their activity.”

Connecting supply chains to sustainability

The programme supports PepsiCo's broader sustainability objectives across its food and beverage portfolio.

Alvalle, PepsiCo's refrigerated gazpacho brand in Spain, maintains a direct connection to Jaén, as the extra virgin olive oil used in the product comes from olive groves in the region.

Through VivaOliva, the programme contributes to rural development, improves livelihoods for small-scale farmers and works towards building a fairer, more sustainable and connected food system.

This approach addresses local agricultural challenges whilst promoting a more sustainable and resilient farming model.

The initiative aligns with PepsiCo's pep+ sustainability strategy, which positions sustainable practices at the centre of the company's growth and value creation.

This reflects PepsiCo's commitment to developing the communities where it operates and sources ingredients for its food and drink products.

PepsiCo's sustainability commitments focus on food access, safe water access, farming and workforce development.

Through its initiatives and collaborations, The PepsiCo Foundation works to strengthen food systems, support farmers and expand access to nutritious food and safe water.