Challenge the "Coke Tasting"! Event commemorating the full relaunch of Coca-Cola Zero
The Coca-Cola System held a PR event at Harajuku Quest Hall in Shibuya, Tokyo, on May 26th to commemorate the relaunch of Coca-Cola Zero and the start of its new campaign, "Coca-Cola Zero TRY! #TasteCoke."
Since its launch, Coca-Cola Zero has established itself as the popular zero-calorie carbonated beverage within the Coca-Cola brand. This year, its eighth, it undergoes a full renewal and will be released on June 1st.
Masahiro Nakai, the commercial character, appeared at the venue. Having previously failed the "Coke Tasting" challenge in a TV commercial where he tried to discern the new Coca-Cola Zero's taste, Nakai showed his determination for revenge and attempted the challenge again.
Joined by surprise guest Kazuhisa Ishii, a former professional baseball player, the tense public "Coke Tasting" contest unfolded. After tasting Coca-Cola Zero with the product name concealed, Nakai declared, "It's definitely Coca-Cola!" but was incorrect. As Nakai reacted with surprise, exclaiming, "No way, I can't tell!", Ishii correctly identified Coca-Cola and claimed victory.
Though he didn't redeem himself on his second try, Nakai praised Coca-Cola Zero's taste, saying, "Even tasting them side-by-side, I couldn't tell. I'd always felt the old one was a bit lacking, but (the new Coca-Cola Zero) packs a punch. They've really taken it to another level. Everyone should try it."
Media representatives covering the event also experienced the "Coke tasting" challenge that day. Few participants correctly identified Coca-Cola and Coca-Cola Zero.
Zero. Finally, at the reporters' request, a Coca-Cola Japan PR representative was called to try, but couldn't get it right either. With a wry smile, they commented, "It's become so delicious that even employees can't tell the difference."
Was this article helpful?
Share this article
