Pepsi’s innovative AI stunt featuring Jamaica was showcased on the iconic billboards of Times Square in New York City on Saturday at 5 p.m. This event marked a historic moment as it was the first time one of Pepsi’s refreshed brand identity campaigns spotlighted a nation on such a prominent international stage. While similar AI stunts have been launched in various markets, Jamaica is the only country to receive this special attention, according to a press release from Pepsi Cola Jamaica.
Continuing its journey of unveiling a refreshed brand identity, Pepsi showcased this AI stunt at the famous Rick’s Cafe in Negril. This new branding marks Pepsi’s first major change in 14 years and was introduced in Jamaica under the campaign “New Beats, Same Jamaican Flava.”
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The campaign “New Beats, Same Jamaican Flava” emphasizes that while Pepsi’s appearance has been updated, the flavor remains unchanged. In Jamaican slang, “beats” refers to clothing, making the campaign title a clever nod to local culture. Rick’s Cafe, a popular tourist destination that attracted over 1.4 million visitors last year, was chosen for this latest reveal, which included hot air balloons adorned with the new Pepsi logo.
This digital display highlights Pepsi’s commitment to innovation and celebration of Jamaican culture, underscoring the importance of tourism to the island’s economy, Pepsi Cola Jamaica stated.
Tourism Minister Edmund Bartlett expressed his excitement: “We are delighted to see Jamaica featured on the world stage through Pepsi’s stunt in Times Square. It beautifully showcases our island internationally and highlights the vital role of our tourism sector. We applaud Pepsi for this initiative.”
Luz Tejada, Commercial Director at Pepsi Cola Jamaica, added, “Our new visual identity brings to life Pepsi’s brand platform ‘Thirsty for More.’ Displaying this stunt on the screens of Times Square shows our dedication to celebrating Jamaica’s rich culture and vibrant tourism industry globally.”
Influencers such as Chad Luchey, known as “Fat Skull,” and Tonaya Wint have teased this significant reveal on their social media, building anticipation for the event.
Pepsi Cola Jamaica encouraged members of the Jamaican diaspora to visit Times Square, take photos, and share them on their social media platforms, proudly displaying their national pride and waving their flags.