Who Makes Sundrop: The Story Behind the Iconic Beverage

If you have ever visited the southern United States, chances are you have seen a bottle of Sundrop on a store shelf or in a vending machine. This citrus-flavored soda has been quenching thirsts for over a century, but have you ever stopped to wonder who makes Sundrop and how it came to be? In this article, we will explore the history of Sundrop, the company behind it, and the factors that have made it a beloved beverage across generations.

The Early Days of Sundrop

Sundrop was first introduced in 1938 by the Sun-Drop Bottling Company of Concord, North Carolina. However, the origins of the drink can be traced back even further. In the early 1900s, a man named Charles Lazier owned a small bottling plant in St. Louis, Missouri. Lazier was experimenting with different formulas for soft drinks when he stumbled upon a combination of lemon, lime, and orange flavors that he believed would be a hit. He began selling the drink, which he called "Sun-Drop", in his local area and it quickly became popular.

In 1928, Lazier sold the Sun-Drop brand to a group of investors who formed the Sun-Drop Bottling Company. The company expanded rapidly, opening bottling plants across the country and introducing new flavors. However, it was the original citrus flavor that remained the most popular.

The Rise of Sundrop

In the 1940s, Sun-Drop Bottling Company began to focus on the southern market, where its citrusy flavor and bright yellow color were a natural fit. The company changed its name to Sundrop and began advertising heavily in the region. Sundrop quickly became a favorite of southerners, who appreciated its refreshing taste and the fact that it was made with real sugar instead of corn syrup.

As Sundrop’s popularity grew, so did the company’s production. By the 1960s, Sundrop was being distributed throughout the southern United States, and the company had become one of the largest independent bottlers in the country.

The Acquisition of Sundrop

In 1980, Sundrop was acquired by National Beverage Corporation, a beverage conglomerate based in Florida. National Beverage Corporation continued to produce Sundrop using the same recipe and marketing strategy, and the drink remained a southern favorite.

In recent years, National Beverage Corporation has expanded its product line to include other popular beverages such as LaCroix sparkling water and Faygo soda. However, Sundrop remains a central part of the company’s brand and continues to be sold across the southern United States.

The Secret to Sundrop’s Success

So, what is it about Sundrop that has made it such a beloved beverage for over 80 years? There are a few factors that have contributed to Sundrop’s success.

First and foremost is the drink’s unique flavor. Sundrop’s combination of lemon, lime, and orange flavors creates a taste that is both refreshing and satisfying. The drink’s bright yellow color and citrusy aroma also add to its appeal.

Another key factor is Sundrop’s focus on the southern market. By targeting this region, Sundrop was able to build a strong regional identity and a loyal customer base. Southerners have embraced Sundrop as a part of their culture, and the drink is often associated with hot summer days and backyard barbecues.

Finally, Sundrop’s use of real sugar instead of corn syrup has also been a selling point for many consumers. Real sugar is often perceived as being a more natural and higher quality sweetener, and many people prefer the taste of beverages made with real sugar.

The Future of Sundrop

As National Beverage Corporation continues to grow and expand its product line, the future of Sundrop remains bright. The company has shown a commitment to preserving the drink’s original recipe and marketing strategy, which has helped it maintain its popularity for over 80 years.

While Sundrop may not be as well-known outside of the southern United States, it has a dedicated fan base and a rich history that make it an iconic beverage. Whether you are a lifelong fan or a newcomer to the drink, there is no denying the unique appeal of Sundrop.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, Sundrop is a beloved beverage with a rich history and a loyal following. From its origins as a small bottling plant in St. Louis to its current status as a southern icon, Sundrop has remained true to its original recipe and marketing strategy. The drink’s unique flavor, bright yellow color, and use of real sugar have all contributed to its success over the years. As Sundrop continues to be sold across the southern United States, it is clear that this iconic beverage will remain a part of the region’s culture for generations to come.