A Case Study in Promotional Items with Coca-Cola

You'd be hard pressed to find an Aussie unfamiliar with The Coca-Cola Company or its range of beverages. Established in 1886, the company has consistently maintained its position as the international leader of the beverage sector for over a century. With worldwide recognition and an iconic brand, Coca-Cola consistently devises unique and memorable promotional items to captivate customers and reinforce its brand identity.

If you're in need of marketing merchandise inspiration you can't go past Coca-Cola's various triumphant promotional campaigns and the distinct promotional products that have played a role in the company's long-lasting success.

Case Study 1: The Share a Coke Initiative

The 'Share a Coke' initiative was a groundbreaking promotional tactic launched in 2011 that aimed at establishing a personal connection with consumers. This campaign involved replacing the standard Coca-Cola emblem on bottles with common names and expressions, urging customers to seek out their own name or share a Coke with their loved ones.

The customised marketing approach led to increased consumer interaction, as customers shared photos of the bottles on social media platforms. This user-generated content boosted Coca-Cola's exposure while also serving as an effective form of word-of-mouth marketing. The initiative's success prompted its worldwide expansion and further variations, such as incorporating song lyrics and holiday-themed names.

Case Study 2: The Happiness Machines Project

The 'Happiness Machines' project by Coca-Cola involved installing specially designed vending machines that provided complimentary Coca-Cola items and other unexpected treats, like branded merchandise like custom printed apparel, promotional balloons, and even pizzas. Positioned in various locations, including college campuses and public spaces, these machines aimed to spread joy and promote the brand.

The campaign became an online phenomenon, with videos of astonished and thrilled consumers spreading rapidly across social media. The Happiness Machines demonstrated Coca-Cola's dedication to creating unforgettable experiences for customers while reinforcing the brand's connection with enjoyment and happiness.

Case Study 3: The Coca-Cola Freestyle Machines

In 2009, Coca-Cola unveiled its Freestyle machines - touchscreen-operated dispensers that enabled customers to craft their own tailor-made beverages by blending an array of Coca-Cola products and flavours. Offering over 100 distinct drink choices, these machines provided a personalised and exclusive experience.

The Coca-Cola Freestyle machines were a hit among customers, presenting an immersive and captivating way to relish their preferred beverages. These machines not only boosted sales but also gathered crucial data on customer preferences, empowering the company to develop targeted marketing campaigns and gain a deeper understanding of its clientele.

Case Study 4: FIFA World Cup Promotions

As a long-time sponsor of the FIFA World Cup, Coca-Cola has utilised this international event to develop unique promotional products and campaigns. During the 2018 World Cup, Coca-Cola introduced limited-edition bottles with designs inspired by the participating countries, as well as special cans and other merchandise.

Moreover, the company executed various promotional campaigns, including an augmented reality experience that allowed fans to engage with virtual soccer players through their smartphones. These promotions successfully reached fans globally, further strengthening Coca-Cola's association with the world's most beloved sport.

Coca-Cola: Leader in Brand Promotions Using Merchandise

Coca-Cola's imaginative promotional items and campaigns have been essential in preserving the brand's international appeal and significance. By continually adapting to evolving consumer tastes and harnessing technological advancements, Coca-Cola has showcased its capacity to generate memorable experiences that resonate with its audience. These case studies serve as evidence of the importance of creative and appealing promotional items in cultivating and sustaining a robust brand presence.

Author Profile: Charles

Charles is the owner/operator of Cubic Promote. Charles has over 15 years of experience in the promotional product industry, making him an expert on not only the products in our range but also marketing strategy implementation and the industry as a whole. Visit him on LinkedIn.