Relocation for global drinks giant

The company, currently based in Theale, has been looking for a new base of operations for some time and has pinpointed the town’s Blade skyscraper as its preferred choice.

Confirming the approach, Blade spokesman Andrew Agnew said: “We have been courting Pepsi in response to their recent activity and, naturally, would be delighted to see such a prominent global brand in Reading.

If we look at the history of Reading, it has attracted companies like Prudential to relocate to the town centre. Having another global company coming here, if it comes to pass, is a very good sign.

Andrew Agnew

Blade spokesman

“There is no doubt The Blade is an exceptional office scheme, which is attracting the interest of potential occupiers not only in the immediate Reading catchment area, but across the South East.”

The relocation would continue the recent trend of large businesses moving to Reading, with Visa Europe, Hutchinson 3G and other companies setting-up in the town over the last several years.

Bill Gornall-King, president of Reading chamber of commerce, welcomed the potential inward investment the move would bring, saying: “It’s wonderful to have out-of-town companies like PepsiCo looking to relocate into Reading.

“We need to ensure that the heart of the town is vibrant. If we look at the history of Reading, it has attracted companies like Prudential to relocate to the town centre. Having another global company coming here, if it comes to pass, is a very good sign.”

PepsiCo employs more than 5,000 people across the UK, 750 of which would move to the new site if the deal goes ahead.

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