Pepsi's Long Reign as America's No. 2 Soda Just Ended

Dr Pepper, a taste of Texas with a long history, has made significant strides and now occupies the second spot in the soda market in America, surpassing Pepsi, as reported by The Wall Street Journal on Sunday based on Beverage Digest data.

While Coca-Cola maintains its dominant position as the industry leader with a 19.18 percent market share in 2023, Dr Pepper has claimed the second position with an 8.34 percent market share, slightly ahead of Pepsi's 8.31 percent. Sprite follows at third place with 8.09 percent, and Diet Coke at 7.82 percent.

Dr Pepper's origins date back to 1885 when Charles Alderton, a pharmacist and soda fountain operator, crafted a beverage in Waco, Texas, blending 23 flavors including cherry, vanilla, and various fruits and spices.

Named after Charles Pepper, a doctor from Virginia whom the soda fountain owner Wade Morrison admired, Dr Pepper became the first of today's widely recognized sodas.

Initially prominent in Southern states, Dr Pepper's national growth began in the 1970s. Owned by Keurig Dr Pepper, the brand has aggressively marketed itself, particularly targeting college football fans and securing placements in soda fountains. Its efforts have paid off, leading to innovations like the introduction of new flavors such as Dr Pepper Strawberries & Cream.

The rise of Dr Pepper to the second position is attributed to its consistent growth and Pepsi's decline, with the latter focusing on zero-sugar products as part of its marketing strategies within a large corporation with diverse priorities.

Dr Pepper enthusiasts, like Daryl Allen from Seattle, celebrate the brand's achievement as a triumph of an underdog, experimenting with unique flavor combinations like hot peppers or pickles to enhance the drink's taste.