Squirt soda has had an interesting journey since its inception. Originally introduced in 1938 by Herb Bishop, Squirt quickly gained popularity as a refreshing and citrusy soft drink. Its unique grapefruit flavor set it apart from other sodas on the market, and it became a hit, particularly in the western and southwestern regions of the United States.
In the 1950s, Squirt started to make a name for itself in the world of mixology. Bartenders and cocktail enthusiasts discovered that the tangy and zesty flavor of Squirt made it an excellent mixer for various alcoholic beverages. Its bright citrus notes added a refreshing twist to classic cocktails, making it a popular choice in bars and restaurants.
Over the years, the ownership of the Squirt brand changed hands several times. In 1970, it was acquired by the Dr Pepper Company, which later merged with Seven-Up to form the Dr Pepper/Seven-Up Company. This merger brought Squirt under the same umbrella as other well-known soft drink brands.
In 2008, the Dr Pepper Snapple Group was formed when Cadbury Schweppes spun off its beverage division. This new entity became the parent company of Squirt, along with other popular soda brands such as Dr Pepper, 7UP, and Canada Dry. The Dr Pepper Snapple Group focused on growing and marketing its diverse portfolio of beverages, including Squirt.
In 2018, the Dr Pepper Snapple Group merged with Keurig Green Mountain to create Keurig Dr Pepper. This merger brought together the strengths of both companies, with Keurig's expertise in the coffee industry and Dr Pepper Snapple Group's extensive beverage portfolio. As a result, Squirt is now owned by Keurig Dr Pepper, joining a wide range of iconic brands in the Keurig Dr Pepper family.
Throughout its history, Squirt has maintained its popularity as a beloved citrus soda. Its distinctive flavor and versatility as a mixer have made it a staple in many households and bars. Whether enjoyed on its own or used to enhance cocktails, Squirt continues to be a refreshing and flavorful beverage choice.
Personal Experience:
I have always been intrigued by the unique taste of Squirt soda. Growing up in the Southwest, it was a popular choice among my friends and family. I remember the first time I tried Squirt in a cocktail, and I was amazed at how it elevated the drink with its tangy citrus flavor. It added a refreshing twist that made the cocktail truly delightful.
Over the years, I have seen Squirt evolve, change ownership, and become a part of the Keurig Dr Pepper family. Despite these changes, its distinct grapefruit taste has remained consistent, and it continues to be a favorite among soda enthusiasts. It is fascinating to witness the journey of a brand like Squirt, as it adapts and evolves while maintaining its unique identity.
The story of Squirt soda is one of innovation, popularity, and adaptation. From its humble beginnings as a regional favorite to its current place in the Keurig Dr Pepper portfolio, Squirt has proven to be a beloved and enduring beverage choice for many.