What brand owns Dr Pepper? This is a question that many curious consumers have asked themselves, especially when sipping on the iconic, uniquely flavored soda. The answer to this question is not only fascinating but also reveals a rich history of corporate mergers and brand ownership.
Dr Pepper, a soft drink that has been a staple in American culture since its invention in 1885, has changed hands several times over the years. The brand was originally created by Charles Alderton, a pharmacists’ assistant at the Morrison’s Old Corner Drug Store in Waco, Texas. However, the rights to the drink were soon acquired by the Artesian Manufacturing and Bottling Company, which began producing and distributing it.
In 1923, the Artesian Manufacturing and Bottling Company merged with the United Drug Company, which later became part of the National Beverage Corporation. This merger marked the beginning of a series of corporate changes that would shape the future of Dr Pepper. Over the years, the brand changed hands several times, with notable ownership by companies such as the Beatrice Foods Company and the Dr Pepper/Seven Up, Inc. joint venture.
In 2008, Dr Pepper was acquired by Cadbury Schweppes, a British multinational confectionery, food, and beverage company. However, in 2019, Cadbury Schweppes was acquired by Keurig Dr Pepper, a new company formed through the merger of Keurig Green Mountain and Dr Pepper Snapple Group. This merger created one of the largest beverage companies in North America, solidifying the ownership of Dr Pepper under the Keurig Dr Pepper brand.
The journey of Dr Pepper from its humble beginnings to becoming a global beverage icon is a testament to the power of brand loyalty and corporate evolution. As the brand continues to thrive under the ownership of Keurig Dr Pepper, it remains a symbol of American ingenuity and a beloved beverage choice for millions around the world.
