The History

The product that has given the world its best-known taste was born in Atlanta, Georgia, on May 8, 1886.

Dr. John Pemberton, a local pharmacist, produced the syrup for Coca-Cola, and carried a jug of the new product down the street to Jacobs' Pharmacy, where it was sampled, pronounced "excellent" and placed on sale for five cents a glass as a soda fountain drink.

Carbonated water was teamed with the new syrup to produce a drink that was at once "Delicious and Refreshing," a theme that continues to echo today wherever Coca-Cola is enjoyed.

Coupons are used to promote Coca‑Cola. John Pemberton registers his “Coca‑Cola Syrup and Extract” label as a copyright with the U.S. Patent Office. Asa Candler begins to acquire personal control of the Coca‑Cola formula and patents from John Pemberton and his partners.

Coca-Cola red border
Coca-Cola red border

“The Most Refreshing Drink in the World”

Thinking that "the two Cs would look well in advertising," Dr. Pemberton's partner and bookkeeper, Frank M. Robinson, suggested the name and penned the now famous trademark "Coca-Cola" in his unique script.

The first newspaper ad for Coca-Cola soon appeared in The Atlanta Journal, inviting thirsty citizens to try "the new and popular soda fountain drink."

Hand-painted oilcloth signs reading "Coca-Cola" appeared on store awnings, with the suggestion "Drink" added to inform passersby that the new beverage was for soda fountain refreshment.

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During the first year, sales averaged a modest nine drinks per day.

“Enjoy a Glass of Liquid Laughter”

Answering the call of The Coca‑Cola Company, the contour bottle prototype is designed by Alexander Samuelson and patented by the Root Glass Company. It is approved by the Bottlers’ Association and becomes the standard bottle.

The first bottling plants are opened in Europe in Paris and Bordeaux

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Liquid Laughter

"130 years and we are just getting started."

The Bottle The Brand