Dr. Pepper's Rise to Fame

Dr. Pepper, founded shortly before Coca-Cola and Pepsi, has recently outpaced Pepsi in sales to become the second-largest soda brand in the U.S. Its success is rooted in a rich history that began in the late 1800s when pharmacies served carbonated beverages as tonics. Key to its growth was a pivotal court ruling in the 1960s that established Dr. Pepper as a distinct beverage, enabling its wider distribution through Coca-Cola and Pepsi's networks. Leveraging this unique positioning, Dr. Pepper has cultivated a dedicated following, particularly in Texas, and expanded its reach across the country over the decades.