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The surprising inspiration behind the original Coca-Cola bottle shape
When you think of Coca-Cola, you probably picture the iconic glass bottle with its distinctive shape. But have you ever wondered how this unique design came to be? The story behind the original Coca-Cola bottle shape is fascinating and unexpected. Let’s take a closer look.
The early days of Coca-Cola
Founded in 1886, Coca-Cola could initially only be enjoyed at soda fountains. It wasn’t until 1899 that the Coca-Cola Company began licensing bottlers to sell the popular beverage. At first, bottled Coke came in plain, straight-sided bottles with a simple Coca-Cola logo in the recognizable Spencerian script.
But this generic design was easy to copy, and competitors began to imitate it. It became clear that Coca-Cola needed a bottle that would stand out and be instantly recognizable as its own.
The Bottle Design Contest
In 1915, the Coca-Cola Company decided to hold a competition among a select group of glassmakers. Their goal was to create a bottle so distinctive that it could be recognized by touch in the dark or even if broken on the ground. The winning design would become the iconic Coca-Cola bottle we know today.
The Root Glass Company emerged victorious, submitting a design so unique and recognizable that they even applied for a U.S. patent, which was granted on November 16, 1915. The bottle’s design featured vertical grooves reminiscent of those found on a cocoa bean pod.
The inspiration: Cocoa Bean Pods
Interestingly, the design team at the Root Glass Company mistakenly believed that Coca-Cola was made from cocoa beans. They drew inspiration from the vertical grooves on cocoa bean pods, which became the defining feature of the bottle’s shape.
It’s important to note that Coca-Cola does not contain cocoa. The name “Coca-Cola” actually comes from the coca leaf and the kola nut. However, the misconception about cocoa beans did not diminish the uniqueness and impact of the bottle.
Brand protection and recognition
The Coca-Cola bottle design was not only patented, but also trademarked in 1961. This was critical because the original patent had expired. The bottle’s distinctive contour and grooved shape had become so iconic that 99% of Americans recognized it by its silhouette alone.
Today, the Coca-Cola bottle is an enduring symbol of the brand’s rich history and global recognition. Its unique shape and design continue to be associated with the refreshing and timeless appeal of Coca-Cola.
Conclusion
The original Coca-Cola bottle shape was inspired by the vertical grooves on cocoa bean pods, despite the fact that Coca-Cola contains no cocoa. This distinctive design, created by the Root Glass Company, became instantly recognizable and synonymous with the Coca-Cola brand.
Over the years, the Coca-Cola bottle has become a beloved symbol that evokes nostalgia and a sense of tradition. It is a testament to the power of innovative design and the enduring legacy of one of the world’s most iconic beverages.
Sources:
- Mash: You’ll never guess the inspiration behind the original Coca-Cola bottle shape.
FAQS
The original shape of the Coca-Cola bottle was inspired by the vertical grooves found on cocoa bean pods. The design team at the Root Glass Company mistakenly believed that Coca-Cola was made from cocoa beans, which led them to incorporate these grooves into the bottle’s design.
Why did the Coca-Cola Company hold a bottle design competition?
The Coca-Cola Company held a bottle design contest in 1915 to find a bottle that would be distinctive and easily recognizable as Coca-Cola. They wanted a bottle that could be identified by touch, even in the dark or when broken on the ground.
Who won the bottle design competition?
The Root Glass Company emerged as the winner of the bottle design competition. Their design featured vertical grooves inspired by cocoa bean pods. The uniqueness and recognition of their design led them to secure a U.S. patent for the Coca-Cola bottle shape.
Does Coca-Cola contain cocoa?
No, Coca-Cola does not contain cocoa. The name “Coca-Cola” comes from the coca leaf and the kola nut, not from cocoa beans. However, the misconception about cocoa beans influenced the design of the bottle, which has become an iconic symbol of the brand.
When was the Coca-Cola bottle trademarked?
The Coca-Cola bottle was trademarked in 1961. This was necessary because the original patent for the bottle had expired. The distinctive contour and grooved shape of the bottle had become so widely recognized that it deserved legal protection as a trademark.