Coca-Cola

Company Brief

• Abbreviated Name Coca-Cola
• Full Name The Coca-Cola Company
• City Atlanta
• State Georgia
• Country of Origin United States
• Still in Business Yes
• Website www.coca-cola.com
• Related Collector Clubs Coca-Cola Collector's Club

Company Profile

The Coca-Cola Company, founded in 1886 by pharmacist John S. Pemberton in Atlanta, Georgia, began as a small-scale beverage produced from a mixture of syrup and carbonated water. Pemberton’s bookkeeper, Frank M. Robinson, coined the name “Coca-Cola,” and the drink quickly gained popularity for its refreshing taste.

In 1888, Asa Candler purchased the formula and brand rights from Pemberton, laying the foundation for Coca-Cola’s rapid expansion. Under Candler’s leadership, Coca-Cola’s distribution grew significantly, aided by aggressive marketing tactics including coupons and sampling. By the early 20th century, Coca-Cola was available nationwide in the United States.

The company’s iconic contour bottle, designed in 1915 to distinguish Coca-Cola from imitators, further solidified its brand identity. Throughout the 20th century, Coca-Cola expanded globally, becoming a symbol of American culture and capitalism. The brand survived challenges such as sugar rationing during World War II and the “Cola Wars” with Pepsi in the latter half of the century.

In recent decades, Coca-Cola has diversified its product line, acquiring brands like Minute Maid, Powerade, and Dasani, and expanding into non-carbonated beverages and snacks. The company has also focused on sustainability and corporate social responsibility, addressing issues like water stewardship and environmental impact.

Today, The Coca-Cola Company is a global beverage leader, with its products sold in over 200 countries. It continues to innovate while maintaining its status as one of the world’s most recognized brands, deeply ingrained in global popular culture.

Company Logos

Below are the company logos The Coca-Cola Company used through the years in telling their story.

• August 1961 Logo

Company Advertisements

• 1923

  Company Advertisements

  

  Thirst knows no Season

  Source: The Ladies' Home Journal from February of 1923

• 1926

  Company Advertisements

  

  What's Really Good Finds Its Way Everywhere

  Source: The Ladies' Home Journal from October of 1926

• Company Advertisements