Just what the doctor ordered! After years of steadily increasing its market share, Dr Pepper finally overtook Pepsi in 2023, according to market share data from Beverage Digest, a respected trade publication. This development marks a significant shift in the soda industry, underscoring Dr Pepper’s growing popularity among American consumers. Pepsi, which has historically held the runner-up position, has now been surpassed by Dr Pepper.
In a stunning turn of events, while Coca-Cola continues to dominate the soda market with a commanding 19.2% share, Pepsi’s long-held position as the second most popular soda in America has been usurped. Beverage Digest reported that Dr. Pepper and Pepsi each hold an 8.3% market share, with Dr. Pepper having technically edged ahead of Pepsi.
Dr Pepper predates Coca-Cola and Pepsi, founded in 1885 in Waco, Texas. While the two cola giants fiercely competed throughout the 20th century, Dr Pepper quietly built a small but devoted following, particularly in the American South. This recent surge in market share reflects the brand’s ability to expand its appeal beyond its traditional stronghold, capturing the taste buds of a broader audience nationwide.
This surprising shift is based solely on the sales of the original drinks themselves and does not factor in the sales of their various flavor variations or diet versions. The news has sent shockwaves through the industry, highlighting Dr Pepper’s remarkable rise and its growing appeal among American soda drinkers.