In 2008, there was a significant development in the beverage industry when Cadbury Schweppes, a well-known company, decided to separate its beverage division and form a new entity called the Dr Pepper Snapple Group. This new company, now located in Plano, Texas, became the current owner of the Hires Root Beer brand.
As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have always been fascinated by the history and ownership behind various beverage brands. When it comes to Hires Root Beer, it holds a special place in the hearts of many root beer enthusiasts. The brand has a rich history that dates back to the late 19th century when it was first created by Charles Hires.
Charles Hires, a Philadelphia pharmacist, developed Hires Root Beer in 1876. He initially formulated it as a herbal tea, which he later turned into a carbonated beverage. Hires Root Beer became incredibly popular, and its success led to the establishment of the Hires Company.
Over the years, the ownership of the Hires brand has changed hands multiple times. From its inception until 1960, the Hires Company remained under the ownership of the Hires family. However, in 1960, the company was acquired by Consolidated Foods Corporation, now known as Sara Lee Corporation. This acquisition marked the beginning of a new era for Hires Root Beer.
Under Sara Lee Corporation's ownership, the Hires brand continued to thrive and gain popularity. However, in 2000, Sara Lee Corporation made the strategic decision to focus on its core businesses, which led to the divestment of Hires Root Beer. The brand was then acquired by Cadbury Schweppes, a British multinational confectionery and beverage company.
For nearly a decade, Cadbury Schweppes enjoyed ownership of the Hires Root Beer brand. However, in 2008, the company made a significant move by separating its beverage division and forming a new company called the Dr Pepper Snapple Group. This separation resulted in the Dr Pepper Snapple Group becoming the current owner of Hires Root Beer.
The Dr Pepper Snapple Group, headquartered in Plano, Texas, is a leading producer and distributor of non-alcoholic beverages. It boasts a diverse portfolio of popular brands, including Dr Pepper, Snapple, 7UP, and of course, Hires Root Beer. The company's acquisition of Hires Root Beer further solidified its position in the beverage market and allowed it to cater to the preferences of root beer enthusiasts.
As a sommelier and brewer, I have had the pleasure of experiencing Hires Root Beer firsthand. Its distinct flavor, with hints of sassafras and various herbs, makes it a unique and refreshing beverage. The brand's ownership history adds to its allure, showcasing how it has evolved and adapted over time.
The Dr Pepper Snapple Group is the current owner of the Hires Root Beer brand. This ownership transition occurred in 2008 when Cadbury Schweppes separated its beverage division to form the Dr Pepper Snapple Group. With its rich history and distinctive flavor, Hires Root Beer continues to be enjoyed by root beer enthusiasts around the world under the ownership of the Dr Pepper Snapple Group.