Coca-Cola is hoping to turn free water machine into a cash stream

NEW YORK: Can a machine that dispenses water for free also turn into a cash stream for Coca-Cola?
The company is testing a machine on the campus of Georgia Tech that lets people fill reusable water bottles with filtered water at no cost — but also offers the option of paying to add bubbles and flavors.
It’s an example of how Coke is searching for new ways to make money as Americans drink less traditional soda. It might also help the company make money on the reusable bottle habit, which could otherwise hurt its business.
Some worry the machines may be a way to brand plain drinking water.
Coke isn’t giving financial details about its ‘Dasani Purefill’ machine, but plans to test the concept at more college campuses this fall.