Coca-Cola penned this logo in 1991 when they went back to their classic recipe which they had used since its origination in 1886. For a time, a very short time, they thought they would be better off leaving behind their original, REAL formula and altering it, but this sudden veer of direction ended up costing them greatly and resulted in a quick switch back to the REAL thing for fear of consumers switching over to their competitor, Pepsi.
As a side note, Coca-Cola has used the word ‘real’ in their slogans 6 times in the past century. I think they realize that people hunger for the real. They understand that if people will link their brand to the word real, then all other brands must be copies or ‘posers.’ Pretty genius I think. Listed here are their slogans referencing the word real:
- 1969 – It’s the real thing.
- 1974 – Look for the real things.
- 1985 – America’s Real Choice.
- 1991 – Can’t Beat the Real Thing. (for Coca-Cola Classic)
- 2003 – Real.
- 2005 – Make It Real.
I think our formulas have been altered also. I know I have veered directions a few times, actually quite a few times, trying to see what works, what people will like, what will make me happy and feel valuable, etc. The original formula for each one of us can only be found in knowing God because He fashioned and created us. My friend Jonathan Welton’s status this morning on his Facebook page was,
The creator determines the identity of the created.
So why do we try to alter who we are and veer from being REAL? I’d love to hear your responses…