Coca-Cola bringing back 1985 'New Coke' formula for new season of 'Stranger Things'

The altered formula was discontinued 79 days after it was launched.

May 21, 2019, 12:41 PM

Coca-Cola is re-launching its 1985 "New Coke" formula in conjunction with the release of the third season of "Stranger Things."

The beverage maker is partnering with Netflix to "immerse viewers in 1980s nostalgia," according to the company. New Coke will appear in several episodes of the upcoming season of "Stranger Things."

Last year, Netflix executives visited the Coca-Cola archives in Atlanta to examine the packaging, memorabilia and advertising of New Coke in order to ensure that the script, props and visuals accurately reflect the time period, according to Coca-Cola.

"In a world of shifting media consumption, we continue to challenge ourselves to find creative and meaningful ways to participate in non-advertising platforms like Netflix to engage with the millions of fans who subscribe to streaming content services," said Geoff Cottrill, senior vice president of strategic marketing for Coca-Cola North America. "We’re excited to partner with Netflix and play a key role in recreating the summer of 1985 in a uniquely Coca-Cola way."

PHOTO: This undated photo provided by Coca-Cola shows a can of New Coke, which was originally launched in the summer of 1985.
This undated photo provided by Coca-Cola shows a can of New Coke, which was originally launched in the summer of 1985.
Coca-Cola via AP

In the summer of 1985, Coca-Cola changed the formula for New Coke, but it was considered a marketing mistake after the altered formula did not sell well with customers, The Associated Press reported. It was discontinued after 79 days, according to the AP.

Netflix will release season three of "Stranger Things" on July 4. Coca-Cola will release a limited number of 12-ounce New Coke cans on May 23, as well as limited edition "Stranger Things" 8-ounce glass bottles of Coca-Cola and Coke Zero Sugar.

PHOTO: A scene from season 3 of "Stranger Things."
A scene from season 3 of "Stranger Things."
Netflix