Nackard Pepsi has been named PepsiCo’s 2025 Donald M. Kendall Bottler of the Year. Palmer Nackard, the bottler’s president, accepted the honor at a New York City ceremony last week. It is the Flagstaff, Ariz.-based company’s second time receiving the award.

The award recognizes independent Pepsi-Cola bottlers in the United States and Canada for business results, execution, a people-first approach and community involvement. Nackard Pepsi previously received it in 2002 and has been a finalist for three consecutive years, the company said.

Now led by the third generation of the Nackard family, the bottler serves 3,000 customers across northern and eastern Arizona. Its customers include schools, businesses, entertainment venues and retail locations.

“Nackard Pepsi continues to set the standard for excellence across our bottling system,” said John Short, senior vice president, strategic partnerships, M&A and franchise, for PepsiCo Beverages U.S., in a release. Short cited Nackard Pepsi’s portfolio growth and strong customer partnerships across multiple markets.

The company also reports supporting more than 450 local causes and organizations annually through donations, volunteer work and other contributions.