For the first time in decades, Dr Pepper has nudged Pepsi out of its spot as the second favorite soda brand in America. Pepsi had been holding onto this position since 1985. But according to the latest data from Beverage Digest, Dr Pepper has taken over as the runner-up to the nation’s long-time favorite, Coke.
According to the data, both Dr Pepper and Pepsi captured 8.3% of the soda market, but Dr Pepper managed to edge out Pepsi by a small margin. Meanwhile, Coke remains firmly at the top with a commanding 19.2% share of the soda market. Other Coca-Cola products round out the top five, with Sprite and Diet Coke taking the fourth and fifth spots, respectively.
Dr Pepper originated in Waco, Texas, in 1885, just a year before Coca-Cola, and it has continued to grow its fan base thanks to its unique blend of flavors. The brand has also invested heavily in strategic marketing and distribution, which has helped boost its popularity.
Duane Stanford, an editor at Beverage Digest, noted to CNN, “Dr Pepper has been gaining, [Pepsi] has been declining, and they’re meeting in the middle.”
One exciting development for Dr Pepper fans is the release of its 24th flavor, Dr Pepper Creamy Coconut, which debuted in May. This limited-time flavor is available in both regular and zero sugar versions. It features “layers of tropical coconut flavor and a delicious, creamy finish,” making it the only coconut-cream-flavored dark soda on the market.
In an exclusive taste test by PEOPLE, the new summer-inspired drink had a distinct tropical aroma right after opening the regular and zero sugar cans. The coconut flavor brought to mind a virgin piña colada, balanced nicely with the classic taste of Dr Pepper that fans love.
