7UP Reformulates Recipe, Changes Name to Highlight Lime Flavor
7UP has reformulated its recipe, significantly increasing lime flavoring, leading to a name change to lime-lemon. The shift is part of a campaign called "Flip the Sip."
7UP has reformulated its signature lemon-lime soda, boosting the lime flavoring and rebranding itself as lime-lemon. Keurig Dr Pepper (KDP), the U.S. owner of the brand, announced the change on Monday as part of a campaign titled "Flip the Sip." This reformulation is presented not as a limited edition but as the new standard for 7UP.
According to KDP, blind taste tests indicated that consumers preferred the reformulated, lime-forward version, describing it as crisper and more refreshing. The new packaging is expected to reach store shelves starting mid-August as current inventory is depleted. Citrus-flavored sodas are noted to be particularly popular among younger demographics.
In a crowded beverage market, the company aims for greater distinction. Drew Panayiotou, KDP's chief marketing and innovation officer, stated that maintaining distinctiveness is crucial for growth in the competitive lemon-lime category.
Originally launched in 1929 as the first lemon-lime soda, 7UP now positions itself as a challenger to category leader Sprite. The redesigned packaging is minimalist and green, featuring the "lime lemon" name. This rebranding aims to solidify 7UP's identity in a market dominated by lemon-lime flavors.