Last Updated:

2024-03-30 04:25:42

The Coca-Cola Company

American multinational corporation founded in 1892

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American multinational corporation founded in 1892

The Coca-Cola Company, established in 1892, produces the famous Coca-Cola soft drink. It also offers a range of non-alcoholic beverage concentrates and syrups, along with alcoholic beverages. Originally created by pharmacist John Stith Pemberton in 1886, Coca-Cola contained cocaine and caffeine. The company's ownership was later acquired by Asa Griggs Candler in 1889, who founded the Coca-Cola Company in Atlanta. The company operates a franchised distribution system and owns Coca-Cola Refreshments in North America.

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1884

Pemberton's French Wine Coca

In 1884, John Pemberton launches Pemberton's French Wine Coca, which is considered as the precursor to Coca-Cola.

1885

Creation of Coca-Cola logo

The Coca-Cola logo was created by John Pemberton's bookkeeper, Frank Mason Robinson, in 1885, using the distinctive cursive script known as Spencerian script.

1886-05-01

Coca Cola Invented

In May 1886, Coca Cola was invented by Doctor John Pemberton, a pharmacist from Atlanta, Georgia.

1886-05-08

First Glass of Coca-Cola Poured

Dr. John Pemberton brought his perfected syrup to Jacobs' Pharmacy in downtown Atlanta where the first glass of Coca-Cola was poured, marking the beginning of this exciting new drink.

1887-11

1888-01-14

Formation of co-partnership between Pemberton and Atlanta businessmen for Coca-Cola

On January 14, 1888, a co-partnership was established between John Pemberton and four Atlanta businessmen for the production and sale of Coca-Cola. This marked a significant step in the early development of the beverage.

1888-04-14

Asa Candler's acquisition of stake in Coca-Cola Company

On April 14, 1888, Asa Candler purchased a one-third interest in the formula of Coca-Cola, a relatively unknown elixir at the time. This acquisition laid the foundation for Candler's future involvement and control over the company.

1888-08-16

Death of John Pemberton and Asa Candler's takeover of Coca-Cola

Following John Pemberton's sudden death on August 16, 1888, Asa Candler swiftly moved to secure full control of the Coca-Cola operation. This marked a significant transition in the leadership and ownership of the company.

1888-08-30

Asa Candler becomes sole proprietor of Coca-Cola

After the death of Dr. Pemberton, Asa Candler quickly secured the exclusive rights to the name 'Coca-Cola' from Pemberton's son, Charley, by offering $300 to Charley's mother at John Pemberton's funeral. Candler later negotiated with Margaret Dozier and her brother to claim full ownership of the beverage.

1889-05-01

Asa Candler claims full ownership of Coca-Cola

By May 1, 1889, Asa Candler asserted full ownership of the Coca-Cola beverage after making a total investment of $2,300 in the drink enterprise.

1891

Incorporation of the Coca-Cola Company

In 1891, Asa Griggs Candler secured complete ownership of the business and incorporated the Coca-Cola Company, leading to the trademark registration of 'Coca-Cola' in 1893.

1892

Incorporation of The Coca-Cola Company

Asa G. Candler incorporated The Coca-Cola Company in 1892 after acquiring the rights to the formula and brand. This marked a significant milestone in the history of the company, allowing for further expansion and development.

1892

The Coca-Cola Company Establishment

The Coca-Cola Company was established in Atlanta, GA, and is renowned for its presence in the food and beverage services sector.

1893

Trademarking of Coca-Cola

In 1893, one year after incorporating the company, Asa Griggs Candler trademarked 'Coca-Cola' with the U.S. Patent Office. This step solidified the brand's identity and laid the foundation for its future success.

1894-03-12

First bottling of Coca-Cola

The first bottling of Coca-Cola took place on March 12, 1894, at the Biedenharn Candy Company in Vicksburg, Mississippi. Joseph A. Biedenharn, the proprietor, used Hutchinson bottles for the initial bottling process.

1894-06-23

Death of Charley Pemberton

Charley Pemberton, an alcoholic and opium addict, was found unconscious on June 23, 1894, with a stick of opium by his side. He passed away ten days later at Atlanta's Grady Hospital at the age of 40.

1895

Southeastern Expansion

Coca-Cola's expansion into the southeastern region in 1895 marked a strategic move towards reaching a wider consumer base.

1899

Candler sells exclusive bottling rights to Benjamin Thomas and Joseph Whitehead

In 1899, Coca-Cola's owner, Asa Candler, sold the exclusive rights to bottle the beverage to lawyers Benjamin Thomas and Joseph Whitehead, recognizing the future potential of portable bottles over soda fountains.

1900

Inspiration for Coca-Cola Contour Bottle design

The design of the Contour Bottle was influenced by the curves and grooves of a cocoa bean.

1901

Removal of Cocaine from Coca-Cola

In 1901, Candler removed all traces of cocaine from the Coca-Cola syrup.

1903

Removal of Cocaine from Coca-Cola

In 1903, cocaine was removed from Coca-Cola, ending the era where the beverage contained an estimated nine milligrams of cocaine per glass.

1904

Koca Nola Launch

Koca Nola, a cocaine-infused cola competitor, is launched. This marks a period of competition and innovation in the cola industry.

1906

Passing of Pure Food and Drug Act

The Pure Food and Drug Act is passed by Congress, leading regulators to focus on Coca-Cola's cocaine formulation. This event highlights the changing regulatory environment for food and beverage products.

1909-01-20

Free Coca Cola Drinks

In 1909, free drink coupons were distributed by Coca Cola to attract potential customers.

1911

US government seizes Coca-Cola syrup in Chattanooga

In 1911, the US government seized 40 barrels and 20 kegs of Coca-Cola syrup in Chattanooga, Tennessee, alleging the caffeine in its drink was 'injurious to health', leading to amended food safety legislation.

1912

Amendment of US Pure Food and Drug Act

In 1912, the US Pure Food and Drug Act was amended to add caffeine to the list of substances that must be labeled as 'habit-forming' and 'deleterious'.

1914

Forgery claims on Coca-Cola Company bill of sale

In 1914, Margaret Dozier, co-owner of the original Coca-Cola Company, alleged that her signature on the 1888 bill of sale had been forged. Similar claims were made about John Pemberton's signature, possibly instigated by his son Charley.

1915

Collaboration for Coca-Cola's Contour Bottle

In 1915, a collaboration began to create the iconic contour bottle for Coca-Cola, which has since become one of the most famous shapes in the world.

1916-04-10

The Contour Bottle

Coca Cola introduced a unique contour bottle design in 1916 to distinguish its brand from competitors.

1917

Coca-Cola's Sustainability Efforts Begin

Since 1917, The Coca-Cola Company has been actively involved in various sustainability initiatives such as water sustainability, women empowerment, community well-being, sustainable packaging, climate protection, human and workplace rights, and sustainable agriculture.

1919-09-05

Incorporation of The Coca-Cola Company

The Coca-Cola Company was incorporated on September 5, 1919, as a beverage company.

1919-09-12

Purchase of Coca-Cola Co. by investors

On September 12, 1919, Coca-Cola Co. was bought by a group of investors led by Ernest Woodruff's Trust Company for $25 million. The company was then reincorporated under Delaware General Corporation Law.

1923-12-25

Patenting of Coca-Cola Contour Bottle

The design patent for the Coca-Cola Contour Bottle was issued on December 25, 1923, and it was nicknamed the 'Christmas bottle'. This iconic bottle design became the standard for the Coca-Cola Company.

1927

Introduction of Coca-Cola to China

Coca-Cola was introduced to China in 1927 and became very popular until 1949. After the Chinese Civil War, importation and sales resumed in 1979.

1931-12-15

Coca Cola and Santa Claus Coincide

In 1931, Coca Cola's advertising campaign featured Santa Claus, which became a popular image associated with Christmas.

1935

Coca-Cola Certified Kosher

In 1935, Coca-Cola was certified kosher by Atlanta rabbi Tobias Geffen after facing scrutiny from the American Jewish population. This certification led to minor ingredient changes to accommodate kosher requirements.

1941

Expansion of Coca-Cola overseas during World War II

In 1941, as the U.S. entered World War II, the demand for Coca-Cola from U.S. soldiers serving overseas increased significantly. The Coca-Cola Company, under Woodruff's leadership, started building bottling plants in various countries to meet the rising demand, laying the groundwork for its international business expansion.

1943-01-09

Coca Cola Sent to WWII Troops

During World War II in 1943, Coca Cola ensured that their product was sent to the troops, providing them with a taste of home during difficult times.

1944-07-12

One Billionth Gallon of Coca-Cola Syrup Manufactured

On July 12, 1944, the Coca-Cola Company reached a significant milestone by manufacturing its one-billionth gallon of Coca-Cola syrup.

1945

Registration of 'Coke' as a trademark

In 1945, 'Coke' was officially registered as a trademark of the Coca-Cola Company. This move solidified the brand's identity and protected it from potential trademark disputes.

1950

Coca-Cola featured on Time magazine cover

In 1950, Coca-Cola in a contour bottle became the first commercial product to be showcased on the cover of Time magazine.

1955-11-15

Introduction of King-size and Family-size Coca Cola bottles

On November 15, 1955, Coca Cola introduced the first king-size and family-size bottles, marking a significant milestone in the company's product offerings.

1960

Introduction of metal cans for Coca-Cola

By 1960, Coca-Cola further diversified its packaging options by introducing metal cans for its beverages. This innovation marked a significant shift in how Coca-Cola products were consumed and made the brand more accessible to a wider audience.

1961

Introduction of Sprite

In 1961, Coca-Cola introduced the lemon-lime drink Sprite to its product line.

1964

Beach Boys' Reference to Coca-Cola in 'All Summer Long'

In their 1964 song 'All Summer Long', the Beach Boys referenced Coca-Cola with the lyrics 'Member when you spilled Coke all over your blouse?'

1968

Publication of Coca-Cola Company Booklet

In 1968, the Coca-Cola Company published a soft cover booklet covering the highlights from 1886 to 1968. The booklet was aimed at Coca-Cola fans and provided an interesting read.

1971-08-15

Expansion of Coca Cola's customer base

In August 1971, Coca Cola expanded its reach to a wider audience with the 'World of Customers' initiative, aiming to attract more consumers globally.

1977

Elvis Presley's Promotion of Coca-Cola

During his last tour in 1977, Elvis Presley promoted Coca-Cola. The Coca-Cola Company used Presley's image and his song 'A Little Less Conversation' in a Japanese commercial.

1978

Coca-Cola sponsors the FIFA World Cup

Since 1978, Coca-Cola has been a sponsor of the FIFA World Cup and other competitions organized by FIFA. The partnership between Coca-Cola and FIFA has been long-standing and prominent in the world of sports.

1979

Coca-Cola commercial featuring 'Mean Joe' Greene

In 1979, Coca-Cola aired a famous television commercial featuring 'Mean Joe' Greene, which led to a long-standing relationship between Coca-Cola and the NFL's Pittsburgh Steelers. This commercial became iconic in popular culture.

1980

Introduction of Diet Coke Project

In the summer of 1980, Jack Carew, a Coca-Cola planning manager, was assigned to lead a project that aimed to introduce a 'diet' version of Coca-Cola. This project had been in the works within the company for two decades but had not been realized until then.

1981

Roberto C. Goizueta becomes chairman and CEO of The Coca-Cola Company

In 1981, Roberto C. Goizueta took over as chairman of the board of directors and CEO of The Coca-Cola Company. He restructured the U.S. bottling operations into Coca-Cola Enterprises Inc. and focused on innovation.

1982

Launch of Diet Coke

Under Roberto C. Goizueta's leadership, The Coca-Cola Company introduced Diet Coke in 1982 as the first extension of the Coca-Cola trademark. It quickly became the most popular low-calorie soft drink globally.

1985-04-23

Introduction of 'New Coke'

On April 23, 1985, Coca-Cola introduced 'New Coke' with a modified formula, which faced backlash from consumers leading to the return of the original formula as 'Coca-Cola Classic' on July 10, 1985.

1985-11-15

Introduction of New Coca Cola Formula

In November 1985, Coca Cola introduced a new taste formula, however, it was met with strong disapproval from consumers, leading the company to return to the original formula.

1986

Merger with bottling operators to form Coca-Cola Enterprises Inc.

In 1986, the Coca-Cola Company merged with two bottling operators, JTL Corporation and BCI Holding Corporation, to establish Coca-Cola Enterprises Inc. This strategic move aimed to streamline operations and enhance distribution.

1988

Partnership with UEFA

Coca-Cola has been a partner with UEFA since 1988, establishing a long-standing relationship with the football organization.

1989

Selena as Coca-Cola spokesperson

Selena became a spokesperson for Coca-Cola in 1989 until her death, filming three commercials for the company.

1990

Expansion into East Germany

In 1990, Coca-Cola began selling its products in East Germany, marking a significant expansion of its global reach.

1991-12

Merger with Johnston Coca-Cola Bottling Group

In December 1991, Coca-Cola Enterprises merged with the Johnston Coca-Cola Bottling Group, Inc. This consolidation further strengthened Coca-Cola's position in the beverage market.

1993

Launch of Coca-Cola Advertising Campaign

In 1993, Coca-Cola launched a new advertising campaign that introduced the world to the iconic Coca-Cola Polar Bear for the first time.

1994

Special Selena coke bottles

In 1994, Coca-Cola issued special Selena coke bottles to commemorate her five years as a spokesperson for the company.

1995

Coca-Cola Fountain Dispenser on Space Shuttle

A Coca-Cola fountain dispenser was developed for use on the Space Shuttle to test carbonated beverage production in space. FGBA-1 and FGBA-2 were used on STS-63 and STS-77 missions respectively.

1996-07-19

Coca-Cola sponsors the 1996 Summer Olympics in Atlanta

Coca-Cola sponsored the 1996 Summer Olympics in Atlanta, allowing the company to showcase its connection to its hometown. This sponsorship was part of Coca-Cola's ongoing support for the Olympic Games.

1998-10-17

Coca Cola Sponsoring FIFA World Cup

In October 1998, Coca Cola sponsored the FIFA World Soccer Cup, aiming to refresh the event and reach a global audience through sports.

1999

Coca-Cola Company purchases Inca Kola

In 1999, the Coca-Cola Company acquired Inca Kola, a popular soft drink brand in Peru, after it outsold Coca-Cola in the country.

2000

For God, Country, and Coca-Cola: The Unauthorized History of the Great American Soft Drink And the Company That Makes It

Mark Pendergrast's book published in 2000 presents an unauthorized history of Coca-Cola, exploring its journey as a beloved American soft drink and the company behind it.

2001-07

Colombian death-squad allegations against Coca-Cola

In July 2001, the Coca-Cola Company was sued over its alleged use of far-right death squads to harm Colombian bottler workers linked with trade union activity. This led to boycott campaigns in several countries.

2002

Discontinuation of New Coke

After facing disappointing sales, The Coca-Cola Company decided to discontinue New Coke in 2002. The original Coca-Cola formula, known as Coca-Cola Classic, remains the flagship product.

2005-07-05

Coca-Cola Resumes Operations in Iraq

After being boycotted by the Arab League in 1968, Coca-Cola resumed operations in Iraq on July 5, 2005, marking a significant return to the market.

2006

My Coke Rewards loyalty campaign

Coca-Cola introduced the My Coke Rewards loyalty campaign in 2006, allowing consumers to earn points for prizes by entering codes from Coca-Cola products.

2010-02-28

Coca-Cola releases localized commercials for the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver

During the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver, Coca-Cola released localized commercials, including one that celebrated Canada's hockey heritage. The commercial was modified after Canada won the gold medal game on February 28, 2010.

2010-03-01

Introduction of Gold Colored Cans in Canada

In March 1, 2010, Coca-Cola introduced gold colored cans in Canada to celebrate the 2010 Winter Olympics. The cans were sold in packs of 12 355 mL each in select stores.

2010-03-08

Debut of The Freestyle Fountain Dispenser

On March 8, 2010, Coca Cola introduced The Freestyle, an innovative fountain dispenser, in the U.S.

2011-02-11

Discovery of Coca-Cola Recipe

On February 11, 2011, a recipe believed to be Pemberton's original formula for Coca-Cola was found, matching the one in Pemberton's diary.

2011-09-22

Coca-Cola Price Reduction Announcement

On September 22, 2011, Coca-Cola announced price reductions, asking retailers to sell eight-packs for $2.99.

2011-11-13

Coca-Cola shares a Coke with South Africa

A press release announcing Coca-Cola's initiative to share a Coke with South Africa, aiming to make a positive impact on the local communities in Cape.

2011-12-08

Transfer of Coca-Cola's Secret Formula

On December 8, 2011, Coca-Cola's original secret formula was moved to a new vault for display at the World of Coca-Cola museum in Atlanta.

2012-06

Coca-Cola distribution in Myanmar

Coca-Cola announced its intention to begin distribution in Myanmar in June 2012, making it officially available in every country in the world except Cuba and North Korea.

2012-11

Introduction of Coca Cola Six-Pack

In November 2012, Coca Cola launched the six-pack, offering a more convenient packaging option for its products.

2013-10-14

The Coca-Cola Amateur Cup

The Coca-Cola Amateur Cup event took place on this date.

2014-05-05

Coca-Cola Works to Remove Brominated Vegetable Oil

On May 5, 2014, Coca-Cola announced it was working to remove a controversial ingredient, brominated vegetable oil, from its drinks.

2016-03-08

Origins of the Formula

On March 8, 2016, a blog post was published discussing the origins of the formula of Coca-Cola.