New coke

The infamous New Coke!

In 1985, The Coca-Cola Company, in an effort to revamp their iconic brand, introduced a new formula for Coca-Cola, which they called "New Coke." The company claimed that the new formula was a result of extensive consumer research and testing, and that it would appeal to a wider range of tastes.

However, the introduction of New Coke was met with widespread backlash and criticism from the public. Many loyal Coke fans felt that the new formula was inferior to the original, and that it lacked the unique taste and character that made Coca-Cola so beloved.

The backlash was so severe that it became a cultural phenomenon, with many people expressing their outrage and disappointment on social media, in the press, and even in protests and boycotts. The company received thousands of complaints and negative letters, and the hashtag #OldCokeIsBetter began trending on social media.

In response to the backlash, Coca-Cola eventually reintroduced the original formula as "Coca-Cola Classic" in 1985, just a few months after the introduction of New Coke. The company also kept the New Coke formula on the market, but it never gained the same level of popularity as the original.

The New Coke debacle is often cited as one of the most infamous marketing failures in history, and it serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of understanding and respecting consumer loyalty and preferences.

Interestingly, in recent years, Coca-Cola has revisited the idea of a "new" Coke formula, introducing new variations and flavors, such as Coca-Cola Life and Coca-Cola Zero Sugar. However, these new formulas have been met with a more positive response from consumers, and the company has learned to approach product changes with a more nuanced understanding of consumer preferences.