Coca-Cola introduces novel soft drink dispensing machine
Gabriel Laffitte, president of Firehouse Subs in Puerto Rico looks on as Laura García, marketing manager for Coca-Cola Puerto Rico demonstrates the machine.
The first touch-screen operated Coca-Cola Freestyle fountains, capable of mixing and serving more than 120 regular and low-calorie soft drink brands are now up-and-running at Firehouse Subs’ four (4) restaurants in Puerto Rico, located in San Patricio Plaza (Guaynabo), Los Prados (Caguas), Juncos (Galería Juncos) and Plaza Las Américas.
The installation of the novel machines at the local restaurants make Puerto Rico the first Hispanic market to have the Coca-Cola Company’s new proprietary fountain. More fountains will be available with the opening of additional Firehouse Subs in the island, the company announced Thursday.
“We have created a concept that has quickly become recognized as the soda fountain of the future – a representation of the way people will experience Coca-Cola beverages years from now,” said Laura García, marketing manager for Coca-Cola Puerto Rico.
The machine is able to dispense many varieties of waters, sports drinks, lemonades and sparkling beverages that, prior to its arrival, were not available in the U.S. or Puerto Rico. The fountains — which represent a complete departure from anything The Coca-Cola Company has offered previously — were in development for more than four years prior to launching in 2010 in the U.S.
“At Firehouse Subs, we are very proud of being the first to offer the revolutionary Coca-Cola Freestyle experience to our customers,” said Gabriel Laffitte, president of Firehouse Subs in Puerto Rico.
“This new technology allows for our consumers to experience with brands that are only available at a Firehouse Subs,” including the restaurant’s exclusive Cherry Lime-Aid drink, he said.
Firehouse Subs will sponsor three happy hours for clients to test this new technology free of charge, from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Feb. 22 at Plaza los Prados, on Feb. 29 at Galería Juncos and March 7, at San Patricio Plaza.
