Fountain drink fans may notice a change the next time they fill their cup. A recent court ruling has ordered Dr Pepper to end its long-standing distribution partnership with Reyes Coca-Cola Bottling , a move that will shift control of the brand’s distribution entirely back to Dr Pepper itself.

The change means that many Coca-Cola–affiliated fountain machines could lose access to Dr Pepper syrup as early as this week . In its place, customers may find Mr. Pibb , Coca-Cola’s own spiced soda — which, in a well-timed twist, is being relaunched this month .

The decision effectively reshapes one of the longest-running beverage distribution relationships in the country. For years, Coca-Cola bottlers have handled Dr Pepper in certain territories, allowing restaurants and fast-food

See Full Page