In August of 1959, the Outdoor Advertising Incorporated (OAI) company released its latest promotion for the Fall of 1959. This promotion aimed to promote Coca-Cola through outdoor advertising and billboards featuring the iconic 1959 Coke Billboards.

The promotion was called Star Performers Build Sales for You. It highlighted that in the Fall of 1959, the bright lights of the entertainment industry and outdoor advertising would team up as the McGuire Sisters to sell Coca-Cola to America.

By blending the 3 McGuire Sisters singers with the selling power of outdoor advertising, the Coca-Cola Company aimed to create a powerful combination for their outdoor posters.

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Posters that Build Sales of Coca-Cola

The 1959 Coke Billboards became a symbol of the advertising strategies employed by Coca-Cola to capture the attention of consumers and create lasting impressions.

The promotion was targeted at Coca-Cola bottlers. An introduction to the promotion detailed the history of Coca-Cola using outdoor poster advertising.

Because their audience grows automatically with population increases, 24-sheet posters are uniquely inexpensive compared to other media.

In 1925, The Coca-Cola Company first offered Bottlers of Coca-Cola a chance to participate in an advertising medium. This medium consisted of 24-sheet posters, with total expenditure amounting to $453,886.76. This offer has never been withdrawn, and spending grew to $3,372,412.19 by 1958.

This history represents the most consistent use of any advertising medium, with expenses shared between The Coca-Cola Company and the Bottlers of Coca-Cola.

There must be some kind of reason for such consistency, and there was. Posters have proven to be unique in several respects and have successfully served Coca-Cola.

For instance, they are the only medium that allows advertisers to capture consumer attention while they move from inside their homes to the point-of-sale.

Their size gives advertisers like The Coca-Cola Company a highly desirable dominance and prestige. Their distribution allows the message to stay with consumers while they move about outdoors.

Additionally, their use of full-color printing presents the product in a realistic and appetizing manner.

The Outdoor Advertising Incorporated company felt that the decade of the fabulous 1960s would see disposable income growing by leaps and bounds and advertising’s responsibility to secure a fair share for Coca-Cola becoming increasingly heavy. Under such circumstances, they felt that any advertiser would find themselves particularly obligated to look at the poster medium as not only one of the most effective media but, in all probability, the most economical one for doing this kind of job.

The Outdoor Advertising Incorporated company anticipated that the fabulous 1960s would see disposable income growing significantly. They believed advertising’s responsibility to secure a fair share for Coca-Cola would become increasingly critical.

Under such circumstances, they felt any advertiser would find themselves particularly obligated to consider the poster medium as one of the most effective and economical options for this task.

All Year Long Around the Clock Star Performers Sell for You

To encourage Coca-Cola bottlers to purchase the outdoor billboards in this promotion, the Outdoor Advertising Incorporated company used taglines like:

Within these taglines, they showcased six new outdoor billboards.

Outdoor Posters Create Top Level Readership

To further support why Coca-Cola bottlers should purchase the billboards in the “Star Performers Build Sales for You” promotion, information on outdoor readership was provided. This information demonstrated the benefits of outdoor performance.

1959 Star Performers Sell Coke for You - Outdoor Readership
1959 Coca-Cola Outdoor Billboards Featuring the McGuire Sisters 13

Posters Advertising Coca-Cola Outscored Other Posters by 32% in First Half of 1959

To further support why Coca-Cola bottlers should purchase the billboards in the promotion, information regarding readership impact and depth of impression was presented.

The following outdoor poster billboards were used in this promotion:

A new line of clocks was rolled out to bottlers in 1970 in the “Bottler Advertising Catalog.” This initiative marked a significant evolution in the way the brand engaged with its bottlers. It aimed not only to enhance the visibility of the brand but also to create a cohesive marketing strategy that encompassed various promotional materials.

Bottlers were offered four new types of clocks, which varied in design and purpose. These ranged from decorative clocks suitable for retail stores to functional clock units that could be displayed in menu boards. Each clock was uniquely designed to draw attention and was adorned with vibrant maroon and blue colors, all featuring the popular slogan, “Enjoy.” This slogan encapsulated the essence of the brand while promoting a sense of enjoyment associated with the beverages.

Bottler Advertising for TAB Cover

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Decorator Design Clocks

The clocks offered under the “Decorator Design” category included two distinct versions: the illuminated model (model number G805) and the non-illuminated version (model number G804). Both clocks showcased a captivating decorator design nestled within circles just below the clock face. They were beautifully complemented by the slogan, “Enjoy.” Manufactured by Neon Products of Lima, Ohio, these clocks were designed to enhance the aesthetic appeal of any venue they adorned.

The illuminated version, with its soft glow, was particularly popular in darkened environments such as bars and restaurants, where it could attractively highlight the branding. Both models were promoted as available for bottlers to use in their outlets starting April 15, 1970, providing an excellent opportunity for increased brand visibility.

Modular (Mod) Clocks

The next clock offering fell under the modular category, commonly referred to as the “mod” clock. This clock, with its bright and vibrant colors, featured a striking clock face adorned with the slogan “Enjoy” prominently displayed. Model number G810 was manufactured by Ingress-Plastene of Crawfordsville, Indiana, and was designed to appeal to a broad consumer base.

The clock’s unique modular construction allowed bottlers to customize its appearance, making it suitable for various settings, whether in retail environments or dining establishments. This versatility contributed to the clock’s popularity among bottlers, as it enabled them to promote the brand effectively while enhancing their store’s ambiance.

Custom Ledge Clock Faces

The final set of clocks introduced was the “Custom Ledge” clocks, ingeniously designed to fit seamlessly into custom ledge menu boards. These clocks came in two sizes, providing flexibility for various display options. The horizontal model (model number N841) and the upright model (model number N803) were crafted to accommodate promotional advertisements for the brand and others.

This design allowed for easy swapping of advertisements based on seasonal promotions or new product launches. This innovative approach not only supported the marketing efforts of bottlers but also ensured that the promotional displays remained fresh and engaging for customers. Both models emphasized the iconic maroon and blue colors and proudly displayed the slogan “Enjoy,” reinforcing brand identity effectively.

Bottler Advertising for TAB Clocks 3
What New Clocks Advertising TAB were Introduced to Bottlers in 1970? 25

Price Index for the TAB Clocks

The Bottler Advertising Catalog provided bottlers with a detailed price index for the new clocks, effective February 10, 1972. The pricing structure was designed to make the clocks accessible to a broad range of bottlers. The non-illuminated decorator design clock was priced at a modest $7.25, while the illuminated version was not available during this period.

The modular (mod) clock was offered at $11.95 each, reflecting its unique design and manufacturing quality. However, it is important to note that the custom ledge clocks were not included in the offering for 1972, signaling a shift in promotional strategy as the brand adapted to changing market conditions and bottler needs.

Bottler Advertising for TAB Pricing
What New Clocks Advertising TAB were Introduced to Bottlers in 1970? 26

The five new clocks introduced in 1970 included:

TAB Logo

As a testament to the quality and design of these clocks, many bottlers reported increased customer interest and engagement in their locations. The clocks not only served a functional purpose but also enhanced the overall ambiance of the establishments where they were displayed.

For instance, restaurants that adopted illuminated clocks found that they became focal points in their décor, often leading to positive conversations among patrons about the brand. This engagement contributed to stronger brand loyalty and customer retention, showcasing the impact of effective advertising tools in the beverage industry.

Moreover, the marketing strategy surrounding these clocks emphasized the importance of brand visibility during a period when competition in the beverage market was intensifying. By providing these promotional tools, the brand not only supported its bottlers but also reinforced its brand message.

This encouraged customers to choose the product over competitors. This strategic alignment between bottlers and the brand exemplified effective collaboration in marketing initiatives.

In conclusion, the introduction of new clocks in 1970 represented a significant marketing effort aimed at enhancing brand visibility and supporting bottlers. The clocks, with their unique designs and effective slogan, played a crucial role in the overall promotional strategy.

As bottlers utilized these promotional clocks, they not only improved their own brand representation but also contributed to the legacy and growth of the brand in the beverage industry.

The Cavalier Corporation had a long-standing history of providing high-quality vending solutions that catered to various beverage markets. Their commitment to innovation and excellence positioned them as a leader in the cooler industry.

The Coca-Cola Company, known for its iconic branding and global reach, has maintained a significant presence in the beverage industry. Their partnership with manufacturers like Cavalier ensured that customers received quality products that aligned with the Coca-Cola brand’s high standards.

Marrying the two together, it made sense that in April 1958, the Cavalier Corporation proudly unveiled a revolutionary series of nine coolers and merchandising vendors specifically designed for Coca-Cola. While a few upright models from this new series were initially released in 1957, this official launch marked the first comprehensive lineup offered by the company.

Each model represented a blend of style and functionality, delivering on the promise of quality that Cavalier was known for.

The new coolers featured a distinctive white top on the round-top upright models, a design that not only caught the eye but also set a new standard in cooler aesthetics. As part of the launch campaign, the company implemented four promotional ads from 1958 to 1959, showcased in multiple editions of The Coca-Cola Bottler magazine, the authoritative publication for Coca-Cola bottlers.

This marketing strategy aimed to highlight the innovative features and quality of the coolers while reinforcing brand loyalty among Coca-Cola distributors and vendors.

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A Complete Line of Quality Coca-Cola Coolers

The inaugural ad campaign commenced in April 1958, prominently featured in The Coca-Cola Bottler magazine. This advertisement introduced an exciting new product line of high-quality coolers, designed to enhance sales for dealers, bottlers, and installation sites.

The cooler lineup included six upright round-top models adorned with fresh white top trim, two striking red and white floor models, and the portable “Carry-Cooler Junior,” which was perfect for on-the-go use. Each cooler was backed by a robust five-year warranty, showcasing the company’s commitment to quality and reliability.

The advertisement emphasized the coolers’ ability to deliver superior service to locations, their potential to significantly boost Coca-Cola sales, and the peace of mind provided by the five-year warranty. This influential advertisement was also reprinted in the June edition of The Coca-Cola Bottler, ensuring widespread visibility.

1958 April 1958 CCBottler Ad Original scaled

Have a Coke in Exclusive Point-of-Purchase Merchandising on Cavalier Select Models

As the calendar turned to 1959, the company reintroduced their advertisement in the February issue of The Coca-Cola Bottler magazine. This strategic move aimed to solidify their branding message, prominently featuring the renowned “Have a Coke” dial at the top of the advertisement.

This innovative feature was included in five new cooler models, designed to illuminate upon the insertion of a coin, thereby attracting the attention of consumers and enhancing the vending experience. The dial not only served as a functional element but also became a symbol of the Coca-Cola brand’s commitment to quality service.

Proven Trouble-Free

Following a successful introduction over a year earlier, the company was able to showcase in their advertisements how two of the standout models in the new product line, the CS-72 and the CS-96, had proven to be trouble-free for bottlers and retail outlets where they had been installed.

These models were highlighted for their reliability and ease of use, which significantly contributed to the positive brand perception among users. This advertisement served as the final promotion for 1959 before the company shifted their focus to the advertising of their new 1960 product line, which exclusively featured upright Coca-Cola coolers with a modern square top design.

The product line and corresponding advertisements prominently featured nine new coolers, each designed to dispense or store Coca-Cola bottles effectively. Each model in this series was crafted with the intention of enhancing the customer experience while ensuring optimal storage solutions for Coca-Cola products.

These innovative coolers not only boasted aesthetic appeal but also functionality that catered to the needs of both users and vendors.

Each cooler in this innovative lineup was engineered with unique features tailored to meet diverse consumer needs. For example, the CS-72 Selective Merchandising Vendor was designed to vend 72 bottles while pre-cooling an additional 17 bottles, ensuring that beverages were always served at the optimal temperature. Meanwhile, the CS-96 variant not only held a similar capacity but also enhanced user interaction with its flashing “Have a Coke” emblem, which illuminated when a coin was deposited, making the vending experience more engaging. Similarly, the CS-124 model was crafted to vend 124 bottles, showcasing the company’s commitment to providing solutions that catered to different scales of operation.

Moreover, the CGD-C Horizontal Giant Dry Cooler held an impressive 22 cases of Coca-Cola, making it an ideal solution for high-demand locations. Its spacious interior combined with energy-efficient cooling technology provided not only convenience but also cost-effectiveness.

For more portable needs, the Carry Cooler Senior Portable Cooler could hold up to 30 bottles of Coca-Cola, making it a favorite for events and outdoor gatherings.

The CMD-C Horizontal Master Dry Cooler, designed to hold 12 cases of Coca-Cola, exemplified the versatility of the product lineup. Its design allowed for easy access while maintaining optimal cooling conditions, ensuring that Coca-Cola products were always ready to serve.

The C-51 Vendor, capable of vending 51 bottles while pre-cooling 50, showcased the company’s attention to detail and commitment to usability.

On the other hand, the C-124 Merchandising Vendor, with its eye-catching “Have a Coke” emblem, was designed to vend 124 bottles efficiently, further enhancing the point-of-sale experience for retailers.

Lastly, the C-144 Merchandising Vendor, which vended 144 bottles, rounded out the lineup with its robust design and capacity.

September 1964 Logo Original

For more information about their extensive product range, visit Cavalier Corporation.

Small Coca-Cola Arciform Logo

To learn more about their history and product offerings, visit The Coca-Cola Company.

In January 1957, the Vendorlator Manufacturing Company, commonly known as VMC or Vendorlator, launched a series of six new coin-operated coolers for Coca-Cola. They conducted three promotional campaigns throughout the year to highlight the features of these coolers in the January, the February, and the May 1957 issues of The Coca-Cola Bottler magazine, targeting Coca-Cola bottlers.

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Start Calling Now to Make 1957 Your Greatest Profit Year

The inaugural promotion for the new 1957 VMC complete product line was titled “Start Calling Now… to Make 1957 Your Greatest Profit Year.” This campaign appeared in the January 1957 edition of The Coca-Cola Bottler magazine, targeting Coca-Cola bottlers. It showcased a rotary dial phone with the six new VMC coin-operated coolers for Coca-Cola integrated into the dial and the yellow Vendorlator Manufacturing Company logo at the dial’s center. The promotion highlighted the coolers’ modernity and their readiness for immediate installation in retail locations.

For a More Successful Treasure Hunt use VMC Coin Coolers

The second promotion for the new 1957 VMC complete product line was titled “For a More Successful Treasure Hunt Use VMC Coin Coolers.” Featured in the February 1957 edition of The Coca-Cola Bottler magazine, this two-page advertisement was aimed at Coca-Cola bottlers. It showcased all six new coin coolers, emphasizing their readiness for shipment as part of a treasure hunt campaign. The promotion also highlighted that each cooler would be more cost-effective and space-efficient for dealers or outlets. Additionally, it provided an overview and the dispensing capacities for each cooler model.

Modern Upright VMC Coin Coolers Give You King Size Capacity

The third promotion featured an advertisement from Coca-Cola, showcasing three out of six new coin-operated coolers, emphasizing their capability to dispense King Size Coca-Cola bottles.

The VMC product line and supporting promotions featured 6 new coolers dispensing bottles of Coca-Cola.

1957 VMC Logo Small

In July of 1968, The Coca-Cola Company introduced a promotion called “The Point of No Return” for Sprite to attract outlets in to increase sales of Sprite by offering them a convenience package message. The promotion appeared as part of the inside advertising promotions for the summer in the 1968 Advertising Price List for Spite.

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Enjoy Sprite It’s a Natural!

The promotion featured a finger pointing in different directions over a blue background towards no deposit no return bottles of Sprite and offered 4 different types of sales aids. The outlet could then write in their own pricing for each of the sales aids.

1968 The Point of No Return New Convenience Package Promotion

This promotion featured 5 different types of sales aids (1 display sheet, 2 display cards, a shelf talker, and a carton hanger).

A shelf talker is a promotional tool used in retail environments, typically found in supermarkets, bookstores, or other retail outlets. It is a small sign or label attached to the edge of a shelf, usually near the product it promotes. Shelf talkers are designed to catch the attention of shoppers and provide additional information about the product, such as its benefits, special features, or promotional pricing. They often include eye-catching graphics, persuasive language, and sometimes customer reviews or endorsements to encourage purchases. Shelf talkers are effective in influencing consumer decisions at the point of purchase by highlighting key selling points directly where the product is displayed.

A carton hanger is a marketing and promotional tool used in retail environments, especially in supermarkets and stores where products are displayed on shelves. It is typically a cardboard or plastic piece that hangs from the edge of a shelf or a pegboard display, designed to hold and display a product’s packaging (carton) in a prominent position.

A display card is a promotional or informational tool used in retail settings to showcase products effectively. It typically consists of a sturdy piece of cardboard or paper, designed to be placed near or on a product display. Display cards can vary in size and shape but are generally larger than shelf talkers or carton hangers.

A display sheet is a promotional tool that provides details about a product or service, including pricing, features, benefits, and promotional messages. It is placed near the product to attract customer attention and inform potential buyers

The Sprite promotion was marketed as a way to offer a new twist to the convenience package message through a colorful point-of-sale blue background. The promotion specifics offered:

Learn More About the Company Brand Featured in this Story

1970 Sprite Logo

In August of 1937, the Williams Oil-O-Matic Heating Corporation of Bloomington, IL who normally produced Oil-O-matic oil heaters or Air-O-Matic air conditioning units, introduced a Coca-Cola coin control dispenser called the Ice-O-Matic. The new dispenser came with 3 parts: a top unit, a bottle rack, and a compressor that could be added to a standard Coca-Cola ice cooler thus updating a cooler from ice to cooler that was constantly cooling. To introduce their new coin control dispenser, the company sent out the brochure below to dealers and bottlers of Coca-Cola. The theme of the brochure was an offer that the new Coca-Cola coin dispenser could help dealers make more money as it would help them get into new territories and new outlets. As the coin dispenser was introduced in August, this company promotion suggested to put the dispenser to work in the fall or winter in hospitals, laundries, post offices, city halls, service stations, department stores, manufacturing plants, and insurance offices with 50 or more employees. The brochure specifically called out putting the new Coca-Cola dispenser in Montgomery & Ward and Sears & Roebuck department stores. The company tagline read.

“Let Williams Ice-O-Matic Coin Dispenser help. Let it work for you.”

The sales brochure came with an offer to try the Ice-O-Matic noting that once the dealer tried 1 unit in one of their locations, they would want to place more units in different locations that could never sell just one case of Coca-Cola any other way. The offer wraps up by telling dealers that the units were available and ready to ship from their factory with an enclosed picture of the factory.

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Ice-O-Matic Features

When the Williams Ice-O-Matic Coca-Cola coin dispenser was introduced with the following features.

1937 Ice O Matic Features scaled
The Story of the New 1937 Williams Ice-O-Matic Coca-Cola Coin Dispenser 69

Product Featured in this Story

This promotion featured the brand new Williams Ice-O-Matic coin dispenser for standard Coca-Cola ice coolers.

Learn More About the Manufacturer and the Company Brand Featured in this Story

In October of 1957, Vendo introduced a groundbreaking promotion targeted at Coca-Cola bottlers and dealers to effectively sell their innovative line of 1957 coolers and pre-mix equipment. This promotion was prominently featured in The Coca-Bottler magazine, a key publication for bottlers during that period. The advertisement highlighted the excitement surrounding vending equipment treasures that were waiting to be discovered by dealers and other locations across the country. Many dealers had not even considered the potential for these treasures, which included a range of new and advanced cooling solutions from Vendo, designed to enhance the vending experience and attract more customers.

This promotion not only encouraged the sale of coolers but also emphasized the importance of strategic marketing in the vending industry. By educating dealers on effective sales techniques and customer engagement strategies, Vendo aimed to foster a stronger connection between the products and the end consumers. The initiative was well-timed, coinciding with the growing popularity of Coca-Cola products, making it an opportune moment for dealers to capitalize on the trend and increase their sales significantly.

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V-Line for 1957: An Innovative Approach to Vending

The promotion aimed to provide dealers with comprehensive assistance, encouraging them to reach out to a dedicated consultant for personalized guidance. This support was designed to help dealers maximize the sales potential of the 14 new products introduced in the V-Line, which were specifically tailored to meet the evolving needs of consumers seeking convenient access to refreshing beverages.

1957 Treasure Hunt 2of 2
How did Vendo Promote their 1957 We Pull with You in the Big Treasure Hunt Coca-Cola Cooler Pre-Mix Campaign? 76

This promotion prominently featured a diverse lineup of 14 different types of coolers. Each model was specifically designed to support dealers in attracting customers and signing them up for the treasure hunt campaign. The coolers were not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing, ensuring they fit seamlessly into various retail environments. Their innovative designs catered to different customer preferences, thus enhancing the overall vending experience.

Moreover, each cooler in the lineup was equipped with modern features that set them apart from previous models. For instance, the V-340 Automatic Coca-Cola Cooler boasted advanced refrigeration technology, ensuring that beverages were kept at the optimal temperature for customer enjoyment. The design also allowed for easy accessibility, encouraging higher sales volumes as customers could quickly grab their favorite drinks on the go.

Additionally, the V-216 Multi-Drink Coca-Cola Cooler offered versatility, allowing dealers to stock a variety of beverages, appealing to a broader customer base. This adaptability was crucial during a time when consumer preferences were rapidly changing, making it essential for vending solutions to keep pace with demand.

The V-144 Multi-Drink Coca-Cola Cooler featured a sleek design that not only attracted attention but also blended well with modern retail aesthetics. Its successful reception among dealers showcased the effectiveness of the promotional strategies, which highlighted the unique selling points of each cooler.

As consumer demands evolved, the V-80 Automatic Coca-Cola Cooler addressed the need for speed and convenience. Its user-friendly interface and quick cooling capabilities made it a popular choice among busy consumers, further reinforcing the importance of understanding market trends.

The Vendo V-110 Multi-Drink Coca-Cola Cooler was equipped with enhanced security features, preventing tampering and ensuring that product integrity was maintained. This aspect resonated well with dealers, who could assure customers of the quality and safety of the drinks they were purchasing.

Meanwhile, the V-110 Multi-Drink Coca-Cola Cooler was equipped with enhanced security features, preventing tampering and ensuring that product integrity was maintained. This aspect resonated well with dealers, who could assure customers of the quality and safety of the drinks they were purchasing.

The V-44 Semi-Automatic Coca-Cola Cooler provided a balance between manual and automatic operation, allowing dealers to tailor their vending approach based on their specific business needs and customer preferences.

Additionally, the V-23 Mechanical Coca-Cola Cooler showcased a classic design that appealed to nostalgic customers, capitalizing on the vintage aesthetics that were becoming trendy during that era.

The Vendo 6-Case Vertical Open Coca-Cola Cooler was designed for high-volume locations, featuring an open front that allowed for easy access to multiple products, making it suitable for busy environments such as convenience stores and gas stations.

The Fully Automatic Coca-Cola Vender was a game-changer in the vending industry, allowing for seamless transactions and reducing wait times for customers. Its advanced technology was a significant selling point during the promotion.

Lastly, the Vendo Remote Counter Dispenser and the Vendo Remote Refrigeration Unit provided flexible solutions for dealers, allowing them to offer a variety of beverage options without the need for extensive space. This adaptability was a crucial aspect of the promotion, enabling dealers to cater to diverse customer needs effectively.

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For those interested in the legacy and innovation of vending solutions, The Vendo Company stands as a key player in the industry, committed to delivering high-quality products that enhance consumer convenience.

Coca Cola Arciform Logo Small

Additionally, The Coca-Cola Company has a rich history of branding and marketing that has shaped the beverage industry, making it a fascinating subject for further exploration by those curious about its impact on consumer culture.

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