Brad's Drink Becomes Pepsi-Cola

August 28th, 1898

August 28th, 1898

Brad's Drink Becomes Pepsi-Cola
How Long Ago?

126 years, 6 months, 15 days ago

Location

New Bern, North Carolina, USA

Category

Economics & Industry

People
  • Caleb Bradham
Links & References
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Brad's Drink Becomes Pepsi-Cola

Caleb Bradham, a pharmacist from New Bern, North Carolina, rebranded his original beverage named 'Brad's Drink' to 'Pepsi-Cola'. This change was prompted by the drink's growing popularity and the need for a more marketable name that would resonate with consumers. The name 'Pepsi' was derived from the digestive enzyme pepsin, promoting the drink's digestive benefits, while 'Cola' referred to its flavor profile. This transformation in branding set the stage for what would become one of the world's largest soft drink companies.

Caleb Bradham was a pharmacist in North Carolina.

Original name was 'Brad's Drink' before rebranding.

Pepsi-Cola emphasized digestive health benefits.

Shift marked beginning of competitive beverage marketing.

What Happened?

Caleb Bradham, a pharmacist by trade, initially created 'Brad's Drink' around 1893 in his drugstore located in New Bern, North Carolina. The beverage was a mix of sugar, water, caramel, lemon oil, nutmeg, and a few other natural additives, aimed at being a refreshing drink to assist digestion. By 1898, as his drink gained traction and popularity among locals, Bradham recognized the potential for broader appeal and the necessity for a catchy name that could capture consumer interest. This led to the rebranding of 'Brad's Drink' to 'Pepsi-Cola'.

The name 'Pepsi' was inspired by the digestive enzyme pepsin, a common ingredient thought to improve digestion, while 'Cola' highlighted its cola nut flavor, which was popular at the time. This strategic rebranding was significant for its marketing implications; it not only differentiated the product from competitors but also emphasized the beverage's purported health benefits. As Bradham moved forward with this new identity, he began to create a more systematic approach to production and distribution, laying the groundwork for the commercialization of carbonated beverages.

In the years following the rebranding, Bradham expanded his reach by bottling the drink and marketing it beyond his local region. By the early 20th century, Pepsi-Cola was established in various markets across the United States. The shift from 'Brad's Drink' to 'Pepsi-Cola' symbolized more than just a name change; it marked the beginning of a new era in the beverage industry, where branding and marketing played critical roles in the success of products.

Why Does it Matter?

The renaming of 'Brad's Drink' to 'Pepsi-Cola' represents a pivotal point in beverage marketing that influenced the soft drink industry profoundly. This transformation not only established Pepsi as a recognized brand but also set a precedent for other beverage companies in branding strategies and consumer engagement. Pepsi-Cola's subsequent growth and competition with other industry giants like Coca-Cola showcased the significance of marketing in consumer products, leading to a dynamic and competitive market that exists today.

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