Atlanta-based Coca-Cola Co., the world’s largest beverage firm, is working on a proprietary fountain system that can dispense more than 100 beverages from a single unit.

First-generation prototype dispensers were tested earlier this summer, the company said Thursday. Second-generation dispensers will begin testing in the first half of 2009. A decision on whether to roll out the system in the market will be made after the second round of testing.

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Courtesy of Coca-Cola

The new dispenser uses highly concentrated ingredients to store more beverages in about the same space as a current eight-valve machine.

The new dispenser, which fits in about the same space as a current eight-valve machine, uses high-concentrate ingredients to store more beverages. Adding a new brand is “about as easy as changing a print cartridge,” the company said in a press release.

“Innovation is our lifeblood,” said Chris Lowe, president of the Coca-Cola North America food service and on-premise division, “and we wanted a dispenser that offers consumers greater beverage variety while helping our customers increase beverage profitability.”