PepsiCo & Partnerships Power Ahead Sustainable Agriculture

PepsiCo, a global leader in food and beverage, has long been rooted in agriculture, sourcing key ingredients like potatoes, corn and oats for its extensive product range. 

In recent years, the company has increasingly focused on sustainable and regenerative agricultural practices. 

The latest development in this journey is the Planting Pathways Initiative, aimed at expanding opportunities in the agriculture sector, particularly for young and underrepresented farmers. 

This initiative aligns with PepsiCo's PepsiCo Positive (pep+) strategy, which seeks to transform its supply chain with a focus on environmental and social progress.

PepsiCo’s partnerships driving sustainable change

Amongst the Planting Pathways Initiative, PepsiCo is striving to reach people across the world with combined sustainable efforts. 

For example, The Inter-American Development Bank's AquaFund, supported by PepsiCo, enhances water access in Guatemala, while PepsiCo’s Safe Water Changemakers initiative promotes sustainable water solutions in vulnerable communities.

PepsiCo's Planting Pathways Initiative is built on strategic partnerships with industry leaders such as Practical Farmers of Iowa (PFI) and the Farm Foundation. 

PFI, a nonprofit organisation, is dedicated to equipping underrepresented and beginning farmers with essential resources, including business planning, coaching, capital and training opportunities. 

This collaboration aims to foster a more inclusive agricultural landscape, enabling diverse farmers to thrive and contribute to a resilient food system.

The Farm Foundation is a non-profit organisation dedicated to improving agriculture through collaboration and practical solutions and with PepsiCo, has introduced the "Field to Future" cohort program, which provides college students with career development support in agriculture. This initiative includes mentorships, scholarships and the opportunity for select individuals to participate in a two-year paid internship within PepsiCo. 

By investing in the next generation of agricultural leaders, PepsiCo is addressing the industry's ageing workforce and promoting long-term food security.

Sally Worley, Executive Director of Practical Farmers of Iowa, commented: "We are grateful to partner with PepsiCo Foods North America on this initiative to enable underrepresented farmers to start and maintain a thriving farm business.

PepsiCo's Planting Pathways Initiative has the potential to provide opportunities for more people to succeed in farming."

PepsiCo’s commitment to innovation and inclusivity

PepsiCo's commitment to innovation is evident in its efforts to create equitable access across the agricultural supply chain. 

The Planting Pathways Initiative is designed to bring fresh perspectives and energy into the sector, addressing global food system challenges. 

By partnering with organisations like PFI and the Farm Foundation, PepsiCo is reinforcing its dedication to sustainable practices and empowering future leaders in agriculture.

Margaret Henry, Vice President of Sustainable & Regenerative Agriculture at PepsiCo, says: "I was born on a farm and am proud to work for PepsiCo, a company rooted in agriculture. 

I have immense respect for the growers and producers that form the backbone of our country."

"PepsiCo has a business stake and responsibility to help grow a resilient and impactful supply chain from the seeds in the field to the products on the shelf to the many people at home enjoying our products."

She adds: "Providing access to food and building leaders for tomorrow are at the heart of our business at PepsiCo. I'm proud these partnerships reinforce our commitment to innovation in agriculture."

The Field to Future cohort program, in partnership with the Farm Foundation, is an important part of the Planting Pathways Initiative. 

Shari Rogge-Fidler, President and CEO of Farm Foundation concludes: "Field to Future will foster future leaders in the food and agriculture industries.

Pairing PepsiCo Foods' commitment with Farm Foundation's network of food and agriculture experts creates opportunities that will shape these industries for years to come."

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