Dr Pepper wants to know: Do you love me, Texas?
A change.org petition launched on Jan. 15 asks Dr Pepper fans to support the brand by saying that it should be declared the official soft drink of the Lone Star State. After they collect signatures, the petition is headed to the House when Congress is in session, says a spokeswoman.
They’re serious about this petition!
Dr Pepper was created in Waco, Texas, in 1885, and the fizzy, cherry drink has become as synonymous with Texas as Whataburger, H-E-B and Buc-ee’s. Dublin Bottling Works, in Dublin, Texas, halted production of Dr Pepper in 2012; Dr Pepper is headquartered in Plano now and is bottled and distributed nationally.
The change.org petition is being launched as a marketing effort, too. Dr Pepper is releasing 15 special-edition labels showing off some of the best things about Texas: bluebonnets, longhorns and the like. These 20-ounce bottles can be purchased in Dallas, Fort Worth, Houston and Waco, according to a press release. (Sorry, Austin, San Antonio, El Paso and others.) It’s expected to be sold in grocery stores.
“Dr Pepper is Texas born and bred, and like any Texan, has only the deepest pride and appreciation for its home state,” said Derek Dabrowski, VP of Brand Marketing at Keurig Dr Pepper. “Dr Pepper has a rich history in the Lone Star State and being named its official soft drink would mark a new milestone to celebrate for generations to come.”