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ToggleWith a goal to replace Slice, PepsiCo. debuted Sierra Mist in 1999, but unluckily struggled to compete against rivals. Being a famous beverage brand, the soda was somehow able to generate $1 billion in yearly U.S. sales in 2021 in comparison to Sprite. Later in 2016, it was rebranded as “Mist Twst” in an effort to refresh the reputation but reverted back to its original after 2 years (2018).
Well, the real disaster is that PepsiCo has completely discontinued the lemon-lime soda in 2023 and introduced “Starry” as a replacement to hope for improved sales. However, there might be another reason behind rebranding.
The biggest loophole here is the Sierra Mist lawsuit, in which a TikTok sensation named Cierra Mistt boldly and clearly accused PepsiCo of suing her. Why? You could’ve guessed: THE SIMILARITY IN NAMES! She kicked off the distrust about the brand’s choice to change the soda’s name. Cierra further explained on social media platforms how she faced legal repercussions. These assertions gained traction, leading to an online discussion and speculation about the true motivations of the brand.
Flight Attendant Cierra Mist vs. Soda Giant PepsiCo
Cierra Mistt is a flight attendant who has now become a TikTok star and is loved by viewers for her entertaining personality and fun content. In a July 2023 video, she disclosed that Pepsi had accused her of trademark infringement over her long-time online name since the AOL Instant Messenger days. Considering she couldn’t share details due to legal boundaries, Mistt hinted at her winning the legal battle. What’s more interesting was the caption to her video stating that the conflict was “amicably resolved.”
Too much drama and still no official statement from the company or clear communication on case settlement This surely left us with many questions concerning Sierra Mist lawsuit settlement! Gossips were fueled, with some thinking Pepsi has tried to defend its name, while others were dubious that Mistt’s indictments might be part of an internet drama.
How a TikToker Took on PepsiCo?
Per the reports, TikToker Cierra Mist received a cease-and-desist letter from PepsiCo, where she was clearly instructed to stop using the name. She was threatened for severe legal actions because her edgy content failed to serve the company’s values. Initially, Cierra was almost convinced to obey but later discovered that the company no longer held rights to it. Good for her!
Feeling intimidated but undeterred, she secured the “Sierra Mist” copyright herself. Considering she had the rights; Cierra could lawfully bring PepsiCo to the trial. Though, the brand proactively rebranded their soda’s name, possibly to take the spotlight away from the lawsuit.
Until now, Cierra believes that the company’s emphasis on introducing new flavors with special ingredients was an effort to stress the rebranding as a huge makeover, thus overshadowing her actions.
Sierra Mist Lawsuit – Being Rebranded As Starry
The discontinuation of PepsiCo’s “Sierra Mist” was unexpected, but the launch of the all-new “Starry” soda brings an energizing twist to its revamped recipe with a stronger citrus flavor reminiscent of natural fruit.
The discontinuation of PepsiCo’s renowned “Sierra Mist” soft drink was a real shock, but the all-new Starry is considered to have a different and stronger citrusy flavor. As the recipe is entirely changed and improved, it tastes closer to natural fruit. There are two types: Zero Sugar and Regular.
Neil Saunders, GlobalData’s managing director of retail, told CNN that: “The design of Starry is much more aligned with the Gen-Z aesthetic, which is bright, fun, whimsical, Instagram-able, than many of Pepsi’s other offerings.”
The one who has already tasted it agreed to the company’s claim that it’s actually quite changed, with less sweetness and a harder punch. Yes, just like Sprite! This might be done intentionally, but concerns arise that this comparison might hamper Starry’s ability to differentiate itself. Again! In fact, reports revealed that it happened to dominate only the smallest part of Sprite’s market. Well, the company is still hopeful to dominate the market of lemon-lime sodas.
Bottom Line
The shift from Sierra Mist to Starry marks an influential chapter in PepsiCo’s grinds to revive its lemon-lime soda brand. Its discontinuation in 2023 was met with surprise. Nevertheless, the rebranding process wasn’t without dispute, as TikTok hit Cierra Mistt’s legal fight with PepsiCo raised concerns. Despite Starry’s similarity to Sprite and its subtle effect on demand, PepsiCo stays upbeat about its prospect of seizing the lemon-lime soda segment.
