The reason they did the 8 oz can is two fold. First is because they want to get it into schools. Thanks to Michele Obama's healthy choice push. schools have to limit sugary drinks and the 8 oz can is under the limit. Second, laws have been passed in some states that when juice or soda is used as a mixer at a bar it must be a new can for every drink and since most mixed drinks are less than 12 oz the 8 oz can offers less waste. That is why you even see the mini sodas now.
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