In the battle of the colas, it’s not just taste that’s swaying India’s Gen Z—it’s trust, emotion, and brand connection. According to the latest Gen Z Index, Coca-Cola has emerged as the preferred cola brand among young Indian consumers, outshining Pepsi in emotional engagement and brand love.
Conducted by Kantar, the study reveals that while both Coca-Cola and Pepsi have strong visibility and market presence, Coca-Cola can spark excitement, build trust, and drive advocacy that gives it a decisive edge.
“Fizz meets feeling” in Coca-Cola’s current brand playbook, which has struck a deeper chord with Gen Z by delivering emotionally resonant and authentic messaging. From its visual appeal to its communication style, Coca-Cola is successfully fostering loyalty among the youth, making it more likely for young consumers to recommend the brand within their peer circles.
In contrast, Pepsi appears to be facing a challenge. Despite its ongoing marketing efforts, the brand is reportedly struggling to convert consumer recognition into deeper emotional loyalty. The index, tracked over three months, shows lower enthusiasm and peer-driven advocacy for Pepsi among Gen Z respondents.
The findings also reflect a shift in what influences younger audiences. With diminishing trust in celebrity endorsements, Gen Z is leaning towards brands that are consistent, relatable, and transparent in their messaging. Emotional resonance and authenticity now outweigh nostalgia and star power.
The key takeaway? Coca-Cola is currently winning not just shelf space, but also mindshare and heartshare in India’s youngest and most digitally connected demographic. As the cola wars evolve, emotional intelligence may prove more powerful than fizz alone.