Nostalgic Tastes and Historic Flavors

Marketing products around America’s history.

Lauren
7 min readMar 18, 2020
Coco-Cola Bottling Company in Columbus

AAmerican products are littered with phrases like, “America’s oldest….” or perhaps, “Made in America since…” Marketing strategists have one common goal in mind, which is to remind you of your childhood, heritage, and even patriotism. Many companies in America have deep histories that go back hundreds of years. For example, corporations like Colgate, Jim Beam, and Brooks Brothers, reach as far back as the 19th century and have histories that they are proud of.

However, sometimes these corporations are guilty of leveraging their histories or using nostalgic feelings to entice the buyer. They accomplish this through t.v. adds, radio ads, signs, and yes — even their packaging incorporates history. Popular companies like Coca-Cola, Yuengling, and even the more modern McDonalds heavily play up their history within an advertisement in order to swindle the customer to buy their product.

Coca-cola sold in a J&B drug store

Historical soda — It’s like drinking the past

Coca-Cola is arguably the most popular soda brand in America. Right behind Dr. Pepper and Vernors Ginger Ale, it…

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Lauren

Public historian • Writer • Passion for telling contested histories • she/her