That insight made it clear that there was an audience for the new flavor, Vlad noted.įor years, Coca-Cola had stopped introducing new flavors under the core Coca-Cola brand.

'Freestyle is not our only way of getting that information, but it's definitely one of our favorite ways.'Ĭherry Vanilla Coke is the most popular hybrid drink across Freestyle machines, according to the company's data. 'We're always looking at multiple ways to vet and learn more about what consumers are looking for,' said Coke Brand Director Oana Vlad. It can also use the data to bring new flavors, such as Cherry Vanilla Coke, to market. Louis based on what people are drinking in each city. For example, a Freestyle machine in Atlanta might have a different display than one in St. The beverage company can use that information to highlight popular flavors on different screens.

It doesn't have data on individual people's drinking habits. Coca-Cola's team gets regular updates from the machines: What is being poured at what time of day, which flavors are popular and how many ounces are dispensed, among other things.

Freestyle, the company's soda fountain machine, offers a detailed look at what people like.Ĭoca-Cola has about 51,000 Freestyle machines, and all of them are connected on a single digital platform. To develop and launch new products, Coca-Cola relies on its insights into consumer preferences. To keep people interested and make sure that they don't abandon the traditional Coke brand, Coca-Cola is trying to make it attractive to both diehard fans and casual drinkers with new flavors and functional varieties.

Vanilla coke