As someone familiar with pop culture, I recall the New Coke debacle of 1985. Back then, Coca-Cola altered the formula of their original Coke, rebranding it as “New Coke.” This change involved switching to high-fructose corn syrup instead of regular sugar, which affected its sweetness profile. The public largely detested it, leading Coca-Cola to reintroduce the original version as “Coke Classic.” Some believe this move was a strategic marketing ploy. Since then, any modifications to Coke’s formula have been met with skepticism.
This week, Coca-Cola revealed plans to revamp Coca-Cola Zero Sugar, signaling changes in both its formula and packaging. Rafael Prandini, North America’s Coca-Cola category lead, emphasized their commitment to continuous improvement in response to evolving tastes and preferences. The objective is to offer fans the best-tasting Coca-Cola with zero sugar or calories, packaged in an iconic design and supported by innovative marketing strategies.
Despite its success, Coca-Cola Zero Sugar still holds a relatively small market share within the brand, according to CEO James Quincey. The refined recipe aims to align the drink’s taste more closely with the iconic Coca-Cola. This adjustment reflects consumer feedback and the company’s dedication to ongoing enhancement.
However, initial feedback on the new Coke Zero Sugar has been predominantly negative.
We already have the new version of Coke Zero in Europe (with no warning). It’s as bad as new Coke was. Have stopped drinking Coke Zero as a result.
— Tara Bradford (@TaraBradford) July 14, 2021
I don’t drink soda anymore, but I’m mad they’re doing it to the one soda I liked ? pic.twitter.com/SEgxBPfZZZ
— nation of classic loki (@NationOfEagles) July 15, 2021
@CocaCola what have you done to my favourite drink coke zero sugar? The new recipe is shocking. I won’t be buying another can until you fix your mistake and bring back the old flavour #cokezero
— Stephen Collins (@scollins87avfc) May 12, 2021
It remains uncertain if Coca-Cola will consider reintroducing “Coca-Cola Zero Sugar Classic” in response to consumer backlash.
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