Hi birdies! Sprite beating Pepsi at last might sound like a twist in the soda wars, but it’s reality now, Sprite has officially overtaken Pepsi in U.S. sales volume, securing the third spot right behind Coca-Cola and Dr Pepper. According to Beverage Digest’s 2024 report, Sprite claimed 8.03% of the carbonated soft drink market, while Pepsi slightly trailed at 7.97%. That’s right, Sprite beating Pepsi at last isn’t a slogan, it’s a fact.
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Obeying the Thirst (Again)
Sprite’s 2024 comeback leaned heavily on nostalgia and generational relevance. Coca-Cola Company revived the 1994 tagline "Obey Your Thirst," featuring modern-day icons like NBA star Anthony Edwards and sprinter Sha’Carri Richardson. The campaign wasn’t just about TV spots; Sprite’s marketing blitz spanned sports sponsorships, bold packaging, and digital platforms tailored for Gen Z. Josh Kroo, VP of sparkling flavors at Coca-Cola, stated that the campaign helped Sprite gain traction with younger audiences. This was followed by a holiday campaign featuring "Anta Claus" and a hip-hop twist on Christmas traditions, continuing its legacy of supporting
Cool Innovation, Cooler Drinks
Sprite isn’t just revamping its image, it’s expanding its flavor profile. Sprite Chill, a drink designed to give a cooling sensation, became the top-selling beverage innovation in North America last year. With $100 million in sales, it was more than a gimmick, spawning new variations like cherry lime and strawberry kiwi. As Pepsi declined in market share, Sprite surged by offering not just flavors but an experience. From TikTok campaigns engaging “flavor hackers” to sponsoring a women’s 3-on-3 basketball league, Sprite is embedding itself into modern
Staying Fizzy in a Shrinking Market
The overall U.S. soda market shrank by 27% over the past two decades, but Sprite found growth through creativity. While it spent less than competitors on ads in 2024, the brand’s sharp cultural resonance and innovative flavors helped it punch above its weight. Obey Your Thirst and similar partnerships show how the drink is staying both cool and current.
At The End
Sprite’s journey from a niche lemon-lime soda to a cultural icon reflects a smart pivot: less about being the best-tasting drink, more about being the right vibe for the right moment. Did you find this interesting? Is this creative enough for you? Let us know what you think via Instagram or email.
