# Temperature-Activated Soda Cans These New Pepsi Max Cans Change Color When Ready to Drink By Michael Hemsworth | Published 2026-06-04 | Marketing Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/pepsi-max-cans References: [talkingretail](https://www.talkingretail.com/products-news/soft-drinks/pepsimax-rolls-out-prizewinning-temperature-activated-cans-03-06-2026/) & [pepsi](https://www.pepsi.co.uk)  These new [Pepsi Max](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/pepsi-max-mango) cans are being launched in the UK as a limited-edition packaging campaign that celebrates the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup in a decidedly fun way. The soda packaging is covered with a soccer ball-themed branding as a nod to the football tournament and will see a total of 150,000 cans enhanced with [thermochromic technology](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/c4-ultimate-energy-frost-collection). This will see the temperature-sensitive ink changing color from white to blue when placed in a fridge as an indication that it's at the perfect point to drink. The color-changing cans will also indicate to consumers that they've won a chance at some prizes including [Pepsi Football Nation](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/pepsi-night-edition) merch, Pepsi Max vouchers, football tickets or even £5,000 in cash towards a home entertainment bundle. The limited-edition Pepsi Max cans will be on offer starting this month in 18-pack and 24-pack sizes. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 9.2/10 - Popularity: 99% | Activity: 99% | Freshness: 79% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: Europe ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Marketing](https://www.trendhunter.com/marketing) > [Branding](https://www.trendhunter.com/branding) ## Key Themes ### Why This Trend Is Growing - **Temperature-sensitive Packaging:** Thermochromic cues transform ordinary cans into freshness and readiness indicators, creating room for low-cost packaging that communicates product conditions without apps or embedded electronics. - **Gamified Limited Editions:** Prize-linked packaging blends collectible design with instant consumer feedback, signaling new potential for retail products that turn routine purchases into entertainment-driven brand interactions. - **Sports-event Personalization:** Tournament-themed packaging connects mass-market beverages to live cultural moments, expanding opportunities for seasonal products that feel timely, shareable, and fan-specific. ### Industries Being Reshaped - **Beverage:** Color-changing drink containers add a sensory layer to refreshment, making functional packaging a differentiator in crowded soda, energy drink, beer, and ready-to-drink markets. - **Packaging:** Smart inks offer an accessible alternative to digital sensors, positioning packaging suppliers to deliver interactive experiences through materials rather than connected devices. - **Sports Marketing:** Branded merchandise, tickets, and event-linked rewards embedded into packaged goods create crossover value between consumer products and fan engagement ecosystems. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Fruit-Forward Sugar-Free Colas](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/pepsi-max-tropical.md) - [Ice Cream Dessert Sodas](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/pepsi-ice-cream.md) - [Ancient Egypt Soda Designs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/pepsi-egypt.md) - [Icy Branded Soda Experiences](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/pepsi-put-it-on-ice-bar.md) - [Influencer-Led Soda Campaigns](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/bring-out-the-flavour-campaign.md) - [German Soccer Can Designs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/can-designs.md) - [Soccer-Themed Sports Drinks](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/powerade-fifa-playstyles.md) - [Soda-Themed Pop-Up Salons](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/pepsi-max-cherry-x-townhouse-salon.md) - [QSR Color-Shift Cups](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/colorchanging-cold-cups.md)