ATLANTA - Pepsi announced earlier this week a March 26 launch date for Pepsi Next, a mid-calorie soda, the Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports.

Pepsi Next contains 60% less sugar then its full-calorie sibling, said Angelique Krembs, vice president of Pepsi marketing, along with enhanced flavors that she said will help it find an audience among those looking to reduce their calorie count without sacrificing taste. Pepsi introduced a mid-calorie soda, Pepsi Edge, in 2004, but pulled it from the market after it failed to gain significant consumer interest.

The new drink targets cola drinkers who, without a mid-calorie option, drink iced teas or sports drinks.

"If we can get a fraction of that volume, that is good business for us," Krembs said.

Commensurate with the product launch, Pepsi is rolling out a marketing campaign that includes sampling at 800 Walmart stores, TV ads and the use of social media.