Blog

How Pepsi Started Going On Shelves is a tale of innovation, rebranding, and evolution. The Pepsi brand has undergone significant transformations since its inception, captivating the hearts of millions globally.

Founded by Caleb Bradham in the 1890s, Pepsi's journey began with a simple drink called Brad’s Drink. Over the years, the brand evolved into the Pepsi-Cola we know today, making its mark as a leading soft drink company worldwide.

Pepsi's branding history is rich with changes, each reflecting the era's cultural and technological advancements. From its early days to its modern digital age branding, Pepsi has continually adapted to remain relevant and appealing to its audience.

In this blog, we will delve into the various stages of Pepsi’s brand evolution, exploring its logo changes, significant milestones, and how it has embraced health trends with products like Pepsi Max. Join us as we uncover the fascinating journey of Pepsi on its path to global recognition.

The Early Days of the Pepsi Brand

Caleb Bradham, a pharmacist from New Bern, North Carolina, created Brad’s Drink in the 1890s. The drink was initially marketed as a health tonic that aided digestion, thanks to its pepsin enzyme content.

By 1898, Bradham rebranded the drink to Pepsi-Cola, aiming to emphasize its health benefits. The first logo, resembling Coca-Cola’s 1885 logo, was a testament to the competitive spirit of the brand's early days.

Pepsi’s reputation grew rapidly, and by 1933, it was acquired by Loft Inc. This acquisition led to significant changes, including the introduction of the 12oz bottle and the tagline "Refreshing and Healthful."

The Logo Evolution of Pepsi

Pepsi's logo has undergone numerous transformations, each reflecting the brand’s growth and the changing times. In the 1940s, under CEO Walter Mack, Pepsi introduced the crown bottle cap design, which later evolved into the iconic ‘Pepsi globe’ during WWII.

The patriotic red, white, and blue colors of the globe became symbols of American pride. By the 1960s, the logo featured a bolder font and a simplified design, aligning with the brand's modernizing image.

From the 1970s to the early 2000s, Pepsi’s logo continued to evolve. The flag-like design of the 1980s gave way to a more minimalist approach in the 2000s, focusing on the globe icon. Each change aimed to keep the brand fresh and relevant in a competitive market.

Branding for the Digital Age

In 2008, Pepsi undertook a major rebranding effort to adapt to the digital age. The Arnell Group designed a flattened and simplified logo, with a new font created by Gerard Huerta. The iconic globe was given an edgier look, and the overall branding aimed to appeal to younger generations.

Despite mixed reactions, Pepsi stuck with the new design, believing it embodied the brand's fun and energetic spirit. The logo's simplicity made it ideal for modern platforms and packaging, ensuring it remained easily recognizable.

This rebranding effort highlighted Pepsi’s commitment to staying relevant in a rapidly changing digital landscape. The brand’s focus on youth and innovation has always been a key factor in its enduring popularity.

A Fresh Look for Pepsi’s 125th Anniversary

In 2023, Pepsi celebrated its 125th anniversary with a significant update to its branding. The new design is a throwback to the brand’s 1987-1997 logo, featuring a bold typeface within the iconic red and blue circle.

This refreshed visual identity was designed to introduce more movement and animation, making it stand out in the digital world. The new color palette, including black, highlights Pepsi’s focus on zero-sugar products, drawing inspiration from the Pepsi Max range.

The updated branding will be rolled out in North America in autumn 2023, followed by a global rollout in 2024. This milestone reflects Pepsi’s continuous evolution and its ability to adapt to changing consumer preferences.

Pepsi Max: Embracing Health Trends

As health trends gained momentum, Pepsi responded with the introduction of Pepsi Max, a zero-sugar product that caters to health-conscious consumers. This move aligns with the increasing demand for healthier beverage options.

Pepsi Max has been a significant part of the brand’s portfolio, offering the same great taste of Pepsi without the sugar. Its success showcases Pepsi’s ability to innovate and meet the evolving needs of its audience.

The focus on zero-sugar products is a testament to Pepsi’s commitment to health and wellness. As consumers become more health-conscious, Pepsi continues to adapt its offerings to meet these preferences.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who founded Pepsi?

Pepsi was founded by Caleb Bradham, a pharmacist from New Bern, North Carolina, in the 1890s.

What was Pepsi originally called?

Pepsi was originally called Brad’s Drink before being rebranded to Pepsi-Cola in 1898.

When did Pepsi introduce the 'Pepsi globe'?

The 'Pepsi globe' was introduced during WWII, inspired by the patriotic colors of red, white, and blue.

What is Pepsi Max?

Pepsi Max is a zero-sugar product introduced by Pepsi to cater to health-conscious consumers, offering the same great taste without the sugar.

Shop with McGrocer, we'll grab your items from the UK's best stores, pack them with care, and deliver right to your door, no matter where you are.