Ozarks Coca-Cola/Dr Pepper Bottling Co.

The company that forever changed the image of Santa Claus more than 70 years ago by matching Santa’s suit to the patented red that is now recognized worldwide, has been named Manufacturer of the Year by the Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce.

Ozarks Coca-Cola Dr Pepper Bottling Co. employs 334 people and offers production, warehouse services, and delivery and equipment services. First bottled in the Ozarks in 1905, Edwin C. Rice, Sr., began 86 years of family ownership in 1920. Currently serving as president is John Schaefer.