Industry Fun Facts

Fun Facts

• For many years, America’s pharmacists were the driving force behind the refinement of soft drinks and many of the flavor combinations.

• The invention of the “crown cap” in 1892 revolutionized the soft drink industry. Tiny in design, it prevented the escape of carbon dioxide from bottled beverages and opened the door for home consumption of soft drinks.

• The invention of the automobile began a new era for the soft drink industry. In 1913, motor trucks began to replace horse drawn carriages as delivery vehicles and were better able to satisfy the country’s growing taste for liquid refreshment.

• During the industrial age, new automated machinery was developed, making the soft drink industry more efficient and productive. This paved the way for the soft drink industry – and the country – to enter a new era of mass production and nationwide marketing.

• The Depression led to the creation of innovative new soft drink brands and containers, which continued during the 1940s and 50s. In response to consumer demand, the industry introduced diet beverages to the market (1952) and rolled out soft drinks in cans (1958).

• During World War II, bottlers donated time, sweat equity and equipment to support the war effort. Their work resulted in the collection of more than 50 million pounds of scrap metal for manufacturing into armaments. Also starting during the World War II era, the soft drink industry donated products to American troops serving on the front lines.