BBC News Online: Business

Coke on tap at home

The UK's Sunday Times reports that Donald Daft, chief executive, has invested venture capital money in the idea.

The company would create a system to mix Coke syrup with carbonated water at the site of each customer's home.

The mixing unit would be sealed to prevent householders discovering Coca-Cola's secret recipe.

Let them drink Coke

Mr Daft told the newspaper that he does not see Pepsi as a rival and will only be happy when customers are turning on their taps to drink Coke rather than water.

"People still like to go and buy things, but one day, yes, this will be a reality," he said.

Businesses, such as pubs and the fast-food chain McDonalds, already have their own mixing systems on site.

The company has not yet launched its idea for homes, but admits it has developed a "prototype".

Mr Daft said he would take the product a step further when a market can be created for it.

Last month Coca-Cola formed a joint venture with the consumer products group Procter & Gamble to set up a new juice and snack company.

The new venture will focus on developing and marketing innovative juice-based drinks and snacks on a global basis.