Dr Pepper is owned by Keurig Dr Pepper Inc, a publicly traded company.
Introduced: 1885
Country of origin: USA
Product type: Soda
Owner: Keurig Dr Pepper Inc.
Website: www.drpepper.com
Previous Ownership:
- 1891: Wade B. Morrison and Robert S. Lazenby through Artesian Manufacturing and Bottling Company.
- 1898: Rights purchased by Southwestern Soda Fountain Company of Dallas.
- 1902: Southwestern Soda Fountain Company changes its name to Dr. Pepper Company.
- 1920: The Circle “A” Corporation purchases Artesian Manufacturing and Bottling Works.
- 1923: The remnants of Dr. Pepper Company and Circle “A” Corporation officially incorporate as Dr. Pepper Company.
- 1984: Dr Pepper shareholders accept an offer from Forstmann, Little, and Company; the company goes private.
- 1986: Dr Pepper merges with Seven-Up Company under the acquisition by the investment firm Hicks and Haas.
- 1995: Dr Pepper/Seven-Up Companies, Inc. acquired by Cadbury Schweppes.
- 2008: Cadbury Schweppes spins off its North American soft drinks business, creating Dr Pepper Snapple Group.
- 2018: Keurig acquires Dr Pepper Snapple Group, forming Keurig Dr Pepper
Dr. Pepper Brands
- Dr Pepper: The original, classic flavor.
- Diet Dr Pepper: A low-calorie version of the original.
- Dr Pepper Cherry: Infused with cherry flavor.
- Diet Dr Pepper Cherry: A low-calorie version with cherry flavor.
- Dr Pepper Vanilla Float: A flavor combining vanilla and the classic Dr Pepper taste.
- Caffeine-Free Dr Pepper: The classic flavor without caffeine.
- Caffeine-Free Diet Dr Pepper: A low-calorie, caffeine-free option.
- Dr Pepper & Cream Soda: A blend of the original flavor with cream soda.
- Diet Dr Pepper & Cream Soda: A low-calorie version of the Dr Pepper and cream soda blend.
- Dr Pepper Dark Berry: A limited-edition flavor with berry notes.
- Dr Pepper Zero Sugar: A zero-sugar version of the original flavor.
- Dr Pepper Cherry Vanilla: A mix of cherry and vanilla flavors with the classic Dr Pepper taste.
The History of Dr Pepper
Origins in a Texan Pharmacy (1885)
The tale of Dr Pepper begins in the bustling town of Waco, Texas, in 1885. In Morrison’s Old Corner Drug Store, a curious pharmacist named Charles Alderton crafted a unique beverage, blending 23 different flavors. This delightful concoction, initially dubbed “a Waco,” captured the hearts of local patrons with its distinct taste.
Rise of a Beverage Icon
The overwhelming popularity of Alderton’s creation soon exceeded the drugstore’s production capabilities. To meet this surging demand, Morrison, together with Lazenby, founded the Artesian Manufacturing and Bottling Company in 1891. This move marked the first significant step in commercializing what would become a national sensation.
From Local Favorite to National Brand (Early 1900s)
In the early 1900s, the Dr Pepper brand solidified its presence. The Southwestern Soda Fountain Company of Dallas, after acquiring the rights in 1898, rebranded to Dr. Pepper Company in 1902. By 1906, the brand had its dedicated manufacturing facility, marking a new era of growth.
Overcoming Challenges (1920s-1940s)
The 1920s to 1940s were tumultuous times for the company. Financial struggles led to bankruptcy and subsequent reformation in 1923. Despite these challenges, the brand thrived through innovative marketing, notably the “10-2-4” campaign, which became a cultural icon.
Post-War Evolution and Expansion
The post-war era saw Dr Pepper navigating a rapidly changing landscape. The company’s marketing savvy and product innovation kept it afloat in a fiercely competitive market. However, by the 1980s, the challenges of debt and market saturation pushed the brand to seek a new direction.
Mergers and Acquisitions: A New Chapter (1990s-Present)
The 1990s heralded a new chapter with mergers and acquisitions. The merger with Seven-Up and the acquisition by Cadbury Schweppes in 1995 expanded its footprint. The subsequent creation of Dr Pepper Snapple Group in 2008, followed by its acquisition by Keurig in 2018, marked the latest evolution of this storied brand.
Legacy and Cultural Impact
Throughout its journey, Dr Pepper has not just been a beverage but a cultural phenomenon. It’s a story of resilience, innovation, and an unyielding commitment to flavor that continues to captivate consumers worldwide.