November 15, 2024. The crisp, refreshing combo of lemon and lime flavors in carbonated water has been a favorite for soda and sparkling beverage drinkers for generations. So how can new brands stand out when consumers already have their go-to lemon-lime fizzy drinks? History shows that the soda industry thrives on innovation and shakeups. Enter Starry Soda, the latest addition to the lemon-lime lineup—one you should have seen coming.
Before Starry Soda: The Household Names of Lemon-Lime Soda
Lemon-lime soda first bubbled up in the early 20th century. In 1929, Charles Leiper Grigg introduced what we now know as 7UP. Back then, it had a different name—Bib-Label Lithiated Lemon-Lime Soda—and it didn’t take long for 7UP to become a hit. Despite the tough times of the Great Depression, people embraced its refreshing taste, offering a simple pleasure during a difficult era.
7UP’s success set the stage for more competition. In 1961, Coca-Cola introduced Sprite, aiming to capture the lemon-lime market. With its crisp taste and vibrant branding, Sprite quickly gained a loyal following. Both 7UP and Sprite became household names, each offering a slightly different take on the classic lemon-lime formula.
Next Chapter: Starry Soda Joins the Fray
For years, PepsiCo tried to compete in the lemon-lime space with Sierra Mist. In 2023, they decided it was time for a change and launched Starry. With a new, crisper flavor and bold marketing aimed at younger consumers, Starry aims to disrupt the established players. PepsiCo made a splash by debuting Starry during the Super Bowl with a commercial featuring popular artist Ice Spice, with follow up advertisements featuring the likes of other popular celebrities and athletes. It’s clear that Starry is positioning itself as a modern and energetic choice in a crowded market.
Starry Soda Wants in on That Pop Culture Fizz
Lemon-lime sodas have always had a knack for staying relevant. In the ’90s, 7UP introduced “Cool Spot,” a fun, animated mascot that appeared in video games and ads. Meanwhile, Sprite leaned into urban culture with its iconic “Obey Your Thirst” campaign, featuring major hip-hop artists and a message of authenticity that resonated with fans.
Today, Starry continues this tradition, tying itself to modern pop culture through social media and influencer collaborations. It’s a reminder that soda is more than just a drink—it’s part of our shared cultural experience.
The Future of Lemon-Lime Sodas: Will Starry Survive and Thrive?
From the early days of 7UP to the bold entrance of Starry, the lemon-lime soda market has seen constant evolution. Each brand brings its own spin, but they all share one mission: to deliver a refreshing, zesty experience. Whether you’re a long-time fan of 7UP or Sprite, or curious to try Starry, one thing’s for sure—the lemon-lime fizz isn’t going anywhere.
Ryan Daly
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