OK Soda

OK Soda was a soft drink created by The Coca-Cola Company in 1993. It was marketed towards the Generation X demographic, using unconventional advertising techniques that were considered innovative at the time. The brand's name, "OK Soda," was chosen to reflect the beverage's average taste and the company's experimental approach to marketing. Despite its unique campaign, OK Soda was discontinued in 1995 due to poor sales.

History

OK Soda was introduced in select markets within the United States in 1993. The Coca-Cola Company aimed to capture the Generation X market, which was perceived as cynical towards traditional advertising. The marketing campaign for OK Soda was characterized by its quirky, ironic humor and the use of postmodern art in its packaging and promotional materials. The cans featured abstract, monochromatic designs created by notable artists such as Charles Burns and Daniel Clowes.

Marketing

The marketing strategy for OK Soda was unconventional. It included a manifesto that was printed on cans and in advertisements, which embraced mediocrity and disenchantment as a reflection of Generation X's outlook. The campaign also utilized a 1-800 number that consumers could call to hear random thoughts and messages. Despite these efforts, the brand failed to resonate with its target audience, leading to its discontinuation.

Flavors

OK Soda offered several flavors, each with its unique design and artist collaboration. The flavors were intentionally made to taste average, aligning with the brand's concept of embracing mediocrity.

Reception

The reception to OK Soda was mixed. While some appreciated the brand's innovative approach to marketing and design, others found the concept of celebrating mediocrity off-putting. Ultimately, the product did not achieve the desired impact in the market, leading to its discontinuation in 1995.

Legacy

Although OK Soda was short-lived, it has since gained a cult following. Collectors seek out cans, promotional materials, and merchandise associated with the brand. The marketing campaign for OK Soda is often studied as an example of early 1990s postmodern advertising techniques.