Coca-Cola-Dr Pepper distribution court ruling: What will really change for consumers?

The recent court ruling that ended the distribution deal between Keurig Dr Pepper and Reyes Coca-Cola Bottling is expected to reshape how Dr Pepper reaches store shelves in several states. However, the brand’s parent company says the change should have little effect on where consumers can find the popular soda.

A decades-long conflict

The conflict between Coca-Cola and Dr Pepper dates back decades, rooted in complex distribution agreements linking the two brands in the United States.

While Dr Pepper is owned by Keurig Dr Pepper Inc., the drink has also been distributed nationally through Coca-Cola, PepsiCo, and independent bottlers. Under contracts signed before the soda market consolidated, Coca-Cola held limited rights to sell and distribute Dr Pepper in specific channels, including theaters and fast-food outlets.

Over time, those agreements became contentious as Keurig Dr Pepper sought full control of its brand across all points of sale.

Keurig Dr Pepper regains control in key states

A recent court decision sided with Keurig Dr Pepper, allowing the company’s direct-store-delivery system to take over from Coca-Cola in distributing Dr Pepper in parts of California, Nevada, Michigan, Wisconsin, and Tennessee.

Coca-Cola said it is “reviewing its food service agreements” as part of a broader business restructuring. A Keurig Dr Pepper spokesperson added that the company is “building plans to enable a smooth transition of this business and ensure continuity for our customers and consumers for our Dr Pepper trademark.”

The statement suggests the ruling will have minimal impact on consumers’ ability to purchase Dr Pepper.

Coca-Cola revives Mr. Pibb as competition returns

Following the court ruling, Coca-Cola announced plans to revive Dr Pepper rival Mr. Pibb, which originally hit store shelves in 1972 before being rebranded as Pibb Xtra in 2001.

Described as “bold, spicy, and with a cherry twist,” the new version of Mr. Pibb contains “30% more caffeine” than Pibb Xtra and includes “hints of caramel.”

The soda will initially return to shelves in Florida, Chicago, Las Vegas, Michigan, and California, with a nationwide rollout planned for 2026.

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