Dr Pepper, created in 1885 by pharmacist Charles Alderton in Waco, Texas, is the oldest major soft drink in the United States, known for its unique blend of 23 flavors. Owned by Keurig Dr Pepper, the brand is a cornerstone of a massive beverage portfolio, with a 12-ounce can containing 42 mg of caffeine.
Key Aspects of Dr Pepper:
Origin: Created in 1885 at Morrison's Old Corner Drug Store in Waco, Texas.
Flavor Profile: A unique, proprietary blend of 23 fruit, spice, and herb flavors, often described as a mix of cherry, caramel, and spice.
Ownership & Distribution: Primarily produced by Keurig Dr Pepper in North America. It is distributed by The Coca-Cola Company in the UK, Ireland, Japan, and South Korea, and by PepsiCo in other markets.
Ownership Structure: In 2025, Keurig Dr Pepper announced plans to split its beverage and coffee businesses, with JDE Peet's being acquired to merge with its coffee division.
Variants: The product line includes Diet Dr Pepper, Dr Pepper Zero Sugar, Dr Pepper & Cream Soda, and Cherry flavors.
Marketing & Culture: Introduced at the 1904 St. Louis World's Fair. The brand is known for its "10-2-4" slogan and a dedicated museum in Waco, Texas.
Corporate Entity:Keurig Dr Pepper (KDP) is a leading, publicly traded, North American beverage company, with a market capitalization reflecting its massive portfolio of over 50 brands.