The cola wars History Timeline and Biographies

The Beginning of The Cola Wars

The Cola Wars officially began in 1975 when Pepsi launched the "Pepsi Challenge," a marketing campaign inviting consumers to blind taste tests to compare Pepsi and Coca-Cola. This aggressive strategy sparked a fierce rivalry and set the stage for future confrontations between the two companies.

Coca-Cola Introduces New Coke

In 1985, Coca-Cola made a significant misstep by introducing "New Coke," a reformulation of its classic beverage. The backlash from consumers was immense, leading to a public outcry and the eventual return of the original formula, now branded as "Coca-Cola Classic." This event was a pivotal moment in The Cola Wars, showcasing the importance of brand loyalty.

Pepsi's "Choice of a New Generation" Campaign

In 1990, Pepsi launched its "Choice of a New Generation" campaign, featuring pop culture icons like Michael Jackson and Madonna. This campaign aimed to position Pepsi as the drink of youth and innovation, further intensifying The Cola Wars and shifting consumer perceptions.

Coca-Cola's Global Expansion

Coca-Cola aggressively expanded its global reach in the early 1990s, entering new markets and increasing its international presence. This strategy was a direct response to the growing competition from Pepsi in The Cola Wars, as both companies sought to dominate the global soft drink market.

PepsiCo Acquires Tropicana

In 1996, PepsiCo acquired Tropicana, a major player in the juice market, diversifying its product offerings. This acquisition was part of Pepsi's strategy to compete more effectively in The Cola Wars by expanding beyond carbonated beverages and into healthier options.

Coca-Cola's Marketing Innovations

Coca-Cola introduced several innovative marketing strategies in 2001, including personalized bottles with names and the "Share a Coke" campaign. These efforts aimed to engage consumers and strengthen brand loyalty amidst the ongoing competition of The Cola Wars.