'Future Smarts' Conference:
Top Executives Offer Insights on Changing Industry.

Industry leaders offer views at BD's "Future Smarts" conference, Dec. 11 2000 in NYC. Highlights:  1) Jack Stahl, president Coca-Cola Co, describes numerous corporate changes and new products plus offers details on "BestPET" plastic bottle technology.  Says:  "Consumers want the option of buying the brands they know, and -- more than ever before -- they want the option of trying categories they don't know."  2) SoBe Beverages CEO John Bello declares "Pepsi got a good deal" purchasing 90% of company for $370 mil.  Adds:  "It's my job to prove this."  3) Pepsi vp colas CJ Fraleigh notes "if colas just (grow) +1% (annually) in the US, that’s 60 million new cases every single year or a brand new retail business of $400 million being created year after year."  4) Snapple Beverages CEO Mike Weinstein says "being owned by Cadbury makes us a better company"; company plans increased distribution of Stewart's gourmet CSD; details new products.  5) Frank Harrison, chairman/CEO Coke Consolidated, pledges increased industry presence in Federal government halls during his tenure as National Soft Drink Association chairman.

Also.  1) third-tier bottler George Kalil offers multiple perspectives; says no interest in selling his business; decries exclusivity deals in C-stores during an on-stage interview.  2) Dr Pepper/Seven Up president/CEO Doug Tough details company's "managing for value" methods.  3) ACNielsen's US president, Steve Schmidt, presents numerous views of industry data.  4) Fiji Water president Ed Slade describes company's strategy to compete with Evian in "premium water" segment.  5) Sanford Bernstein beverage analyst Bill Pecoriello presents consumer-panel research showing weak recall on some soft drink advertising.  Predicts big opportunities for non-carbs and water. 6) ING Barings beverage analyst Manny Goldman -- stepping in at last minute to replace Nantucket Nectars co-chairman Tom First -- offers opinions and insights.  First's flight to New York cancelled due to weather.  More.  Details in The Green Sheet.  CD-ROM.  BD offers CD-ROM disc version of "Future Smarts."  Click here for more information.