CIM MBA Program

Thursday, February 05, 2009

Coke To Drop Classic

Reflecting a shift to focusing on a younger audience, Coca Cola announced that it was dropping "Classic" from its flagship "Coca Cola Classic" beverage. The Atlanta-based company, added "Classic" just after the introduction of "New Coke" in 1985. Coca Cola re-introduced its "old" formula under the "Classic" name after consumers reacted negatively to the New Coke.

According to Coke spoksman Scott Williamson, the lettering on the bottle will have the phrase “Coke Classic original formula.”
“We’ve taken very deliberate steps to ensure that people know the Coke Classic they know and love remains the same,” he said. Williamson also added that change helps toward the development of a consistent international brand. Debate continues today about's Coke's decision to introduce New Coke. Some believe it was a mistake, while others believe it was part of a marketing strategy.