Big Gulp

Big Gulp

A Big Gulp cup from 7-Eleven

The Big Gulp is a line of fountain drinks sold at 7-Eleven convenience stores. Introduced in the early 1980s, the Big Gulp quickly became a cultural icon in the United States, known for its large size and affordability. The Big Gulp is available in various sizes, with the original size being 32 ounces. Over the years, 7-Eleven has expanded the Big Gulp line to include even larger sizes, such as the Super Big Gulp, Double Gulp, and the Team Gulp.

History

The concept of the Big Gulp originated in 1976 when a Coca-Cola deliveryman suggested to a 7-Eleven store manager in Texas that they should sell 32-ounce drinks. The idea was to offer a larger size than the standard 12-ounce and 20-ounce cups available at the time. The first Big Gulp was introduced in 1980, and it was an immediate success, leading to the introduction of even larger sizes.

Sizes and Variations

The Big Gulp line has expanded over the years to include several sizes:

• Big Gulp: The original 32-ounce size.
• Super Big Gulp: A 44-ounce version introduced in the 1980s.
• Double Gulp: A 64-ounce size that became available in the 1990s.
• Team Gulp: A massive 128-ounce cup designed for sharing.

Each size offers a variety of soft drink options, allowing customers to choose from popular brands such as Coca-Cola, Pepsi, and other beverages available at 7-Eleven.

Cultural Impact

The Big Gulp has become a symbol of American consumer culture, often associated with the "bigger is better" mentality. It has been referenced in various forms of media, including television shows, movies, and literature. The large size of the Big Gulp has also sparked discussions about health and nutrition, particularly in the context of obesity and sugar consumption.

Controversies

The Big Gulp has been at the center of several controversies, particularly regarding its contribution to unhealthy dietary habits. In 2012, New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg proposed a ban on the sale of sugary drinks larger than 16 ounces in an effort to combat obesity. This proposal, often referred to as the "soda ban," was met with significant opposition and was eventually struck down by the courts.

Marketing and Promotions

7-Eleven has used various marketing strategies to promote the Big Gulp, including special promotions, discounts, and loyalty programs. The brand has also collaborated with popular beverage companies to offer exclusive flavors and limited-time offers.

Related Pages

• 7-Eleven
• Soft drink
• Obesity
• Sugar consumption