The beverage industry is important to the success of local businesses throughout America. In Illinois, iconic brands including Coca-Cola, Pepsi and Dr Pepper have operated for more than 100 years. The We Deliver Chicago coalition recently sat down with small businesses and neighborhood associations across Chicago to hear how the beverage industry impacts their communities. In this video, Melissa Panizzi, executive director of the Edison Park Chamber of Commerce, explains that 99 percent of the restaurants in her community are mom-and-pop, family-owned businesses. Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria has been in the area for more than 40 years, serving Chicago-style deep dish pizza in 36 locations. The restaurant’s marketing manager, Meggie Lindberg, says choice is key to creating a successful menu.

Our member companies believe in giving consumers choices. You’ll see plenty of options in the We Deliver Chicago video – from colas to flavored waters, teas to juice drinks.  And with our Clear on Calories initiative, now it's easier than ever for people to choose the beverage that’s right for them.