Pepsi is one of the world’s most recognized soft drink brands and a flagship carbonated cola beverage owned and marketed by PepsiCo. Since its introduction in 1898, Pepsi has grown from a local pharmacy drink into a global consumer brand sold in more than 200 countries and territories through PepsiCo’s worldwide distribution network. [1]

Pepsi was originally created by pharmacist Caleb Bradham in New Bern, North Carolina, in 1893. The drink was initially sold under the name “Brad’s Drink” as a refreshing beverage.

On August 28, 1898, Bradham renamed the drink Pepsi-Cola. The name “Pepsi” was inspired by the word dyspepsia (indigestion), reflecting the belief at the time that the beverage could aid digestion, although it never contained the digestive enzyme pepsin. [1]

Pepsi expanded rapidly during the early 20th century through franchised bottling operations.

Key milestones include:

• 1903: Pepsi-Cola Company officially incorporated.

• 1930s: Introduced the famous 12-ounce bottle for 5 cents, helping the company recover during the Great Depression.

• 1965: Pepsi-Cola merged with Frito-Lay to form PepsiCo, creating one of the world’s largest food and beverage companies.

• 1980s–1990s: Expanded internationally and strengthened its position through celebrity endorsements and major sports sponsorships.

• 2023: Celebrated its 125th anniversary with a refreshed visual identity and global marketing campaign. [2]

The Pepsi brand includes numerous beverage variants, including:

• Pepsi Original

• Pepsi Zero Sugar

• Diet Pepsi

• Pepsi Wild Cherry

• Pepsi Lime

• Pepsi Vanilla

• Pepsi Mango (limited markets)

• Pepsi Max (international markets)

• Caffeine-Free Pepsi

Flavor availability varies by country.

Pepsi is known for:

• Blue, red, and white globe logo

• Youth-oriented advertising

• Association with music, entertainment, and sports

• Modern and energetic brand personality

The logo has undergone multiple redesigns since the early 1900s, with the latest major refresh introduced in 2023. [1]

Pepsi has built its reputation through high-profile marketing campaigns featuring global celebrities and athletes.

Notable ambassadors over the years include:

• Michael Jackson

• Britney Spears

• Beyoncé

• Lionel Messi

• David Beckham

The brand is also a longtime sponsor of major sporting and entertainment events, including football competitions, concerts, and international music campaigns.

Pepsi is one of the world’s leading cola brands and is a principal competitor to The Coca-Cola Company. The long-running rivalry between Pepsi and Coca-Cola is commonly referred to as the “Cola Wars.”

PepsiCo complements its beverage portfolio with well-known snack and food brands such as Lay’s, Doritos, Gatorade, Quaker, and Mountain Dew. [1]

Pepsi products are sold across:

• North America

• South America

• Europe

• Asia

• Africa

• Middle East

• Australia

The company operates through a large network of bottling partners and distributors, enabling broad international availability. [1]

According to PepsiCo, its mission is:

“Create more smiles with every sip and every bite.” [1]

The company also emphasizes sustainability through its PepsiCo Positive (pep+) strategy, focusing on environmental responsibility, resilient supply chains, and expanding positive product choices. [1]

• Pepsi was invented by a pharmacist.

• It was originally called Brad’s Drink.

• The brand officially adopted the name Pepsi-Cola in 1898.

• Pepsi celebrated its 125th anniversary in 2023.

• Pepsi has featured some of the world’s biggest entertainers and athletes in its advertising over the decades. [1]

Pepsi is a globally recognized soft drink brand with a history spanning more than 125 years. Founded by pharmacist Caleb Bradham as “Brad’s Drink,” it evolved into one of the world’s leading cola brands and became part of PepsiCo following the company’s 1965 merger with Frito-Lay. Today, Pepsi is sold worldwide and is known for its strong presence in popular culture, extensive product range, and ongoing focus on innovation, marketing, and sustainability. [2]

1. PEPSI® CELEBRATES ITS HISTORIC 125TH ANNIVERSARY WITH 125-DAY-LONG CAMPAIGN, SPOTLIGHTING ICONIC MOMENTS OF THE PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE

2. About the Company | PepsiCo