Retroist Podcast Episode 370 (Diet Coke)
Summary
This episode explores the history of Diet Coke, tracing its origins from Coca-Cola’s initial reluctance to use its trademark on diet sodas to the 1982 launch of Diet Coke. The host details the product’s development, including the shift from saccharin to aspartame and its massive commercial success against competitors like Tab and Diet Pepsi. The discussion also covers evolving marketing strategies, the impact of New Coke, and how Diet Coke established a unique identity distinct from regular Coca-Cola.
Topics discussed
Personal history with Coke and the introduction of Diet Coke
Early history of diet sodas: NoCal, Diet Right, and Tab
Coca-Cola's trademark concerns and the xylomate ban
The internal push for a Diet Coke and Project Harvard
Naming, sweetener choices, and marketing strategy
The 1982 launch, advertising campaign, and initial success
Diet Coke's rise, switch to aspartame, and New Coke era
1982 cultural context: movies, TV, and newspaper ads
Evolution of Diet Coke marketing through the 90s and 2000s
Coke Zero, modern trends, and Diet Coke's enduring legacy
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