By Melody Korongwe
Coca-Cola’s classic “Share a Coke” campaign is back in Zimbabwe, and it’s a huge hit, especially with younger consumers.
The company is experiencing a significant surge in sales thanks to the marketing stunt, which replaces the iconic Coca-Cola logo on bottles and cans with popular first names and nicknames.
Barry Otieno, a senior marketing manager for Coca-Cola, noted that the campaign is designed to create a sense of personal connection and nostalgia.
First launched in Australia in 2011, the campaign’s global popularity is a testament to its simple but effective idea: encouraging people to share a Coke with someone whose name is on the bottle.
“We’re bringing it back to remind the younger generation of this amazing campaign from a decade ago,” Otieno said.
“It’s all about creating those intimate, joyful moments,” he added.
The campaign’s success is not just about nostalgia for those who remember it. It’s also capturing the attention of a new, younger audience.
“I’m seeing an increase in sales everywhere. “It’s like some people are reliving the experience, while the younger guys are excited to get their version of it and share the magic of ‘Share a Coke,” Mr. Otieno explained.
To connect with this new generation, Coca-Cola is using modern, relatable language. Paul Oloo, Coca-Cola’s senior communications manager for East and Central Africa, mentioned that the campaign is engaging Gen Z by incorporating everyday terms like “BFF” and “BAE” to create a fun, familiar vibe.
“This is your time addressing a new generation of consumers. “Whether you were part of ‘Share a Coke’ back then or you missed the opportunity, this is a Zimbabwe edition,” Oloo added.
The company is even offering people the chance to create their personalized cans.
This local campaign is part of a broader effort across countries like South Africa, Ghana, Nigeria, and Kenya, where Coca-Cola has customized bottles to embrace local languages and cultural identity.
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