In our business, diversity and inclusion provide a competitive advantage that drives business results. Our brands appeal to an extraordinarily diverse array of customers and they are sold by an equally diverse group of retailers. To truly understand the needs of our consumers and customers -- and to succeed in the marketplace -- PepsiCo must reflect that diversity in our supplier base and in everything we do.

An integral part of our mission is a commitment to purchase from a supplier base representative of our employees, consumers, retail customers and communities.

Developing partnerships with minority-owned and women-owned suppliers helps us build the world-class supplier base we need. It creates mutually beneficial relationships that expand PepsiCo's sphere of activity. It helps build community infrastructure by providing employment, training, role models, buying from other minority and women-owned business and supporting community organizations.

Therefore, we seek opportunities to give qualified minority and women suppliers a chance to succeed. It benefits PepsiCo, our business objectives and our communities.