Pepsi is a globally recognized brand known for its iconic commercials and rivalry with Coca Cola.

The origins of this popular soft drink trace back to humble beginnings.

Over a hundred years ago, in a pharmacy in North Carolina, the original formula for what would eventually be known as Pepsi was created by Caleb Bradham, a pharmacist from New Bern, North Carolina, in 1893. During the 1890s, many pharmacists operated soda fountains in their pharmacies. Bradham, in one of these fountains, concocted his own beverage recipes to serve customers. One of his most successful creations was initially called “Brad’s drink,” made from a blend of water, sugar, caramel, kola nuts, and various other ingredients.

Brad’s creation quickly gained popularity, prompting him to give it a more appealing name. In a stroke of branding genius, he rechristened his beverage “Pepsi-Cola.” By 1903, the name was trademarked, and its popularity surged across North Carolina. By 1910, the drink was being distributed in 24 states. Over time, celebrities endorsed the product, propelling its fame even further.

However, the company faced challenges as World War I unfolded. Bradham’s bet on increasing sugar prices during the war backfired, as sugar prices significantly dropped instead. This left Bradham with excessive sugar inventory purchased at higher rates, causing Pepsi-Cola to declare bankruptcy in 1923. In 1931, the brand was acquired by Loft Candy Co. The Great Depression brought further struggles, and Loft even tried to sell Pepsi to Coca-Cola, which declined to purchase. Loft rebranded Pepsi-Cola, introducing 12-ounce bottles for five cents. This move resulted in the iconic “nickel nickle” radio jingle, becoming a widespread advertising success story of the century.