Pepsi-Cola: The 1898 rebranding of Brad’s Drink

On August 28, 1898, the soft drink originally known as ‘Brad’s Drink’ was officially renamed Pepsi-Cola. The beverage was first developed in 1893 by pharmacist Caleb Bradham in New Bern, North Carolina.

The name ‘Pepsi-Cola’ was derived from the digestive enzyme pepsin and the kola nut used in its recipe. Bradham intended for the drink to be both flavorful and helpful for digestion.

Following its creation, the brand experienced significant shifts, including a bankruptcy during the Great Depression. It was eventually acquired by Charles Guth, president of Loft Inc., who sought a replacement for Coca-Cola products. Despite multiple attempts by Coca-Cola to purchase the brand between 1922 and 1933, Pepsi declined the offers, eventually evolving into a major global competitor.