Faygo: The Rise of Detroit's Iconic Soda Brand

Faygo Beverages, Inc., originally known as Feigenson Brothers Bottling Works, was founded in Detroit, Michigan, in 1907 by Russian immigrant bakers Ben and Perry Feigenson. Having moved to America to seek better opportunities, the brothers used their skills as bakers to create unique soda flavors based on their cake frosting recipes. Their first creations were fruit punch, strawberry, and grape sodas, which quickly gained local popularity. The early distribution of Faygo was modest, with the brothers delivering their sodas on horse-drawn wagons. At the time, a bottle of soda sold for just three cents, or customers could buy two bottles for a nickel, making Faygo both affordable and accessible.

In 1921, the brothers realized that their brand needed a shorter, more memorable name. They chose “Faygo,” a simplified version of their family name, Feigenson, which also helped make the brand stand out. Faygo then embarked on an era of innovation and expansion, continually adding new flavors to its growing product line. Among the most iconic were Faygo Redpop, a sweet strawberry-flavored soda, and Rock & Rye, a cream soda with hints of vanilla and cola. These flavors became synonymous with the Faygo brand, contributing to its long-lasting success.

In the 1950s, Faygo adopted forward-thinking marketing strategies, including the use of animated television commercials. These commercials were groundbreaking at the time and helped establish Faygo as a household name in Detroit and the surrounding areas. However, Faygo faced obstacles, such as adapting to Michigan’s container deposit law passed in 1978, which required changes in how beverages were packaged and sold. Despite these challenges, Faygo continued to thrive, drawing on its loyal customer base and commitment to quality.

In 1987, Faygo was acquired by National Beverage Corporation, which helped to expand its distribution while maintaining its identity as a beloved regional brand. Today, Faygo remains a cultural staple in the Midwest, celebrated for its vast array of flavors and nostalgic charm, connecting generations through its iconic sodas.
Faygo: The Rise of Detroit's Iconic Soda Brand