On April 23, 1985, the Coca-Cola Company announced a reformulated version of its flagship soda, soon dubbed “New Coke.” The change was meant to compete with rival soft drinks and to refresh the brand. Many consumers reacted negatively, saying the new formula did not match the original’s taste. Protests and complaints poured in from across the country. Within a few months, Coca-Cola reintroduced the original recipe as “Coca-Cola Classic.” The episode became a famous marketing lesson about brand loyalty and consumer perception.
