Few people have been more deeply connected to the Dr Pepper story than Jim Turner, whose leadership and legacy have shaped both the brand and the Museum that celebrates it. As the former Chairman and CEO of the Dr Pepper/Seven Up Bottling Companies and a key supporter in the creation of the Dr Pepper Museum, Turner’s influence continues to inspire generations of Dr Pepper fans. Recently recognized as the Museum’s honorary 3-millionth visitor, he reflected on his journey, the Museum’s role in preserving Waco’s history, and a few of his favorite memories. 

What first inspired you to get involved with the Dr Pepper Museum? 

Jim: Our family purchased the Dr Pepper/Seven Up Bottling Companies, the largest Dr Pepper bottler in the world, beginning in 1984, which included Dr Pepper Waco. As owners and operators of these bottling companies, we were committed to helping with the development of the Dr Pepper Museum. As Chairman and CEO, I provided both time and resources to assist in getting the Museum started on the site of the old Dr Pepper Bottling Company. 

Tell us about your early role with the Dr Pepper Museum. 

Jim: From the beginning, our family and company were deeply involved in helping establish the Museum and ensuring it has become a lasting tribute to Dr Pepper’s history. We worked alongside the founding supporters and the Waco community to bring the vision to life, connecting the brand’s legacy to its birthplace. 

How did you get your start with Dr Pepper Bottling? 

Jim: I began my career with Dr Pepper as President of their company-owned bottling operations after serving as President of a large Coca-Cola bottler and gaining many years of experience in the beverage industry. Our family later purchased and expanded Dr Pepper bottling operations across the country through both organic growth and acquisitions over 21 years of private ownership. 

Any reflections on your time leading Dr Pepper Bottling? 

Jim: The Turner Family’s decision to sell our Dr Pepper holdings was a difficult one, made only after much deliberation. We invested everything we had to take Dr Pepper to another level of success, as recognized by our many awards and our induction into the Beverage World Hall of Fame. Our focus extended beyond business as we prioritized education, supported schools and colleges, and worked to make Dr Pepper an integral part of sports and community life wherever we operated. 

What does being the “3-millionth visitor” to the Museum mean to you? 

Jim: The recognition as the 3-millionth visitor was one of my most memorable honors. Our long association with Dr Pepper, Waco, Baylor University, and the Museum itself made this moment especially meaningful for me and my family. The Dr Pepper Museum symbolizes so much of what makes the soft drink industry and the Waco community special. 

In your view, what unique role does the Dr Pepper Museum play in preserving heritage, culture, and community identity in Waco and beyond? 

Jim: The Museum has been an important part of Dr Pepper’s success by providing a place to preserve history, showcase memorabilia, and tell the story of America’s oldest major soft drink. It offers an authentic experience that connects generations of fans to the brand’s roots in Waco while celebrating the creativity and entrepreneurship that define the soft drink industry. 

What is one of your favorite memories at the Museum? 

Jim: My favorite memory is the Grand Opening of the Dr Pepper Museum. It was a historic day and the culmination of years of planning, dedication, and teamwork by so many passionate supporters and the Waco community. 

Do you have a favorite piece of Dr Pepper memorabilia or collectible? 

Jim: One of my favorites is the life-size horse made entirely of Dr Pepper bottle caps, proudly displayed in the Museum. It is a magnificent piece of art that everyone should see in person because it perfectly captures the creativity and fun spirit of the brand. 

Honors of Note 

• Beverage Industry magazine’s Man of the Year (1995) 
• Beverage World magazine’s Hall of Fame (1996) 

We are deeply grateful to Jim Turner and the Turner Family for their years of leadership, generosity, and dedication to the Dr Pepper legacy. Their vision and support helped lay the foundation for the Museum’s continued success and its impact on Waco and beyond. 

When you visit the Museum, be sure to see the incredible life-size horse made entirely of Dr Pepper bottle caps, one of Jim’s favorite pieces in the collection. It is a must-see reminder of the creativity and spirit that make Dr Pepper and the Museum so special.