Dr Pepper to Launch Red Fusion Drink

Dr Pepper/Seven Up Inc. will introduce a red, fruit-flavored version of its Dr Pepper soda in July as the third-largest U.S. soft-drink maker tries to boost sales of the brand.

The drink, called Red Fusion, will be the first new flavor in Dr Pepper’s 117-year history, the company said.

Dr Pepper’s sales declined 1.7% last year, according to Beverage Digest, an industry trade publication. Dr Pepper/Seven Up is a unit of London-based Cadbury Schweppes.

Beverage makers are turning to new flavors and colors to help revive the U.S. soft-drink market, which analysts said grew 0.6% in 2001.

Dr Pepper/Seven Up is based in Plano, Texas. The company also makes Canada Dry and Squirt.

Bloomberg News