Costco sparks outrage with controversial drink change from Pepsi to Coke
- Costco members are reacting to the recent change in the food court beverage from Pepsi to Coca-Cola, sparking significant discussion on social media.
- The swap has led to increased interest in collectible hot dog signs, with auction prices reaching up to $700.
- This change is more than just a beverage swap; it highlights cultural divides and customer loyalty toward specific brands.
In the United States, Costco's decision to change its food court beverage from Pepsi to Coca-Cola has ignited significant debate among its members. The transition, which began in early July 2025 and is expected to be fully implemented by fall, has caused a stir as many patrons are reacting with mixed feelings on social media platforms. Some members expressed dissatisfaction, claiming that the flavor of the hot dogs has been altered without Pepsi, while others welcomed the change, asserting that Coca-Cola products are far superior. The move has become widely discussed online, symbolizing a larger cultural divide between Coca-Cola and Pepsi supporters. This longstanding rivalry isn't merely about preference; it connects to nostalgic memories, traditions, and personal identities tied to the brands. For some, the exchange is emblematic of how people see Costco's food court experience, with its iconic $1.50 hot dog and soda combo remaining a significant draw for customers. Moreover, the swap has inadvertently created an unexpected market for Costco-related memorabilia. As the signage for the $1.50 hot dog was replaced, some signs have been auctioned off, demonstrating their newfound value as collectible items. Reports suggest that one hot dog sign was auctioned to employees for $150 in Ohio, while another was being listed on Facebook Marketplace in Chicago for $700. This reflects a growing interest in these nostalgic tokens as more than just signage, but pieces of pop culture history. The CEO of Costco, Ron Vachris, announced earlier in January that the company would revert to Coca-Cola as their primary beverage supplier after offering Pepsi products since 2013. This decision has certain business implications as food courts contribute to drawing members into stores more frequently, thereby increasing overall sales. As the complete transition to Coca-Cola nears completion, discussions continue about the culinary and emotional impacts of this significant change.