New Coke was introduced in 1985 as Coca-Cola’s reformulated cola.
The company changed the original formula after taste tests suggested that consumers preferred a sweeter flavor, similar to Pepsi. Coca-Cola announced the reformulation on April 23, 1985, and temporarily discontinued the original product in the United States.
The change produced a strong consumer backlash. Many customers protested the disappearance of the familiar taste, and Coca-Cola returned the original formula under the name Coca-Cola Classic on July 11, 1985. New Coke continued in limited form for years before being discontinued. The episode became a major lesson in brand loyalty and product positioning.