The Birth of Coupons: Started by Coke back in 1888.
Do you know how Coca-Cola became so famous? It all started with a very unique but clever idea in 1888. Coca-Cola created special offline tickets called coupons that gave people free drinks whenever redeemed .This idea helped Coca-Cola become a household name and till this date is still inspiring companies as well as coupon platforms such as Qyubic.
Coca-Cola’s Game Changing Idea
Coca-Cola’s coupon idea was simple but powerful. They created a catchy slogan: “Drink Coca-Cola“, and gave away free drinks to get people talking about it, They also sent coupons to people who might want to try their drink such as:
- Pharmacists: Coca-Cola was initially sold in pharmacies, so they targeted pharmacists and their customers.
- Doctors: Doctors were very influential in the community, and Coca-Cola hoped to get them to be on their side.
- Nurses: Nurses were also targeted, as they were seen as trusted healthcare professionals and also more like motherly figures.
- Middle-class families: Coca-Cola aimed to appeal to the growing middle class, who had disposable or spendable income.
- Working-class individuals: They also targeted workers in industries like textile mills and railroads to be able to gain their trust.
These three ideas helped Coca-Cola become a success
- A simple yet effective slogan: “Drink Coca-Cola” resonated with customers as it was very simple.
- Word-of-mouth buzz: Free products encouraged sharing and discussions which helped gain awareness as well as kept people talking about it.
- Targeted marketing: Coupons reached potential customers by focusing on a specific group of individuals be it industry based or price based.
Key Takeaways and Tips From Coca-Cola’s Success
Coca-Cola’s idea or campaign teaches us very important and valuable lessons.
Reward Users With Offers Or Coupons
Giving rewards, like coupons or providing first time or repeat customers with any form of benefits which can make them save money can create a strong sense of loyalty and there are better chances of retaining the rewarded customer for a long period of time which can help in strengthen your brand value
Make the coupon experience personal
By creating experiences tailored around an individual you basically are creating a sense of connection which motivates users to feel more valued and appreciated. For e.g. Addressing them by their name, or offering them unique coupons or reward such as “Hi Musk, thanks for your 50th purchase with us, being our long time customer, You get 10% off sitewide throughout the year!”
Did You Know That Even Before Coke, Coupons Existed?
Believe it or not, coupons have been around for over 1,400 years! Even Long before Coca-Cola introduced its famous coupon in 1888, coupons were already in use. In fact, the first recorded use of coupons dates back to 638 CE, when Umar, the second ruler of the Islamic Caliphate, introduced coupons to ration food during a severe famine which created a lot of food shortage.
These ancient or historic coupons allowed people to exchange them for essential ration goods like wheat and flour. Fast-forward to the 19th century, Coca-Cola popularized the modern coupon concept with its 1888 ticket for a free glass of Coke.
Coupons: Then and Now
However, the idea of coupons had already been established centuries earlier. Over time, coupons have evolved to become a staple in marketing strategies, with companies like Betty Crocker introducing loyalty programs and coupons in the 1920s.
Today as companies have gone digital , Online coupons remain a popular way for people to save money and earn rewards, with mobile and web based coupons making it easier than ever for smart or budget shoppers.
Conclusion
Coca-Cola’s coupon idea was a game-changer in the marketing industry. By using coupons and personalization, companies can make a lasting impact on the end user making their overall shopping journey much more enjoyable hence creating a strong bond resulting in loyalty and overall increasing the brand value of the company.
