Coca-Cola pulls the plug on Coke Spiced

Remember Coca-Cola Blāk, or Black Cherry Vanilla Coke? Well, Coca-Cola (NYSE:KO) is adding another flavor to the dustbin of retired flavors with the company discontinuing production of its newest flavor, Coke Spiced, a little over 6 months after it was launched.

The company’s latest attempt to draw in younger drinkers with the “classic test of Coca-Cola with refreshing bursts of raspberry and a curated blend of warm spiced flavors” fell flat with its prospective demographic who are cutting back on soda consumption, opting instead for flavored water or energy drinks. Consumers were also confused about the flavor, which wasn’t very “spicey.”

The company’s effort to bring the new flavor to market was on an accelerated timeline, with development achieved in just seven weeks versus the typical timeline of 12 months as part of its experimental Creations division. The segment also brought to market – for a limited time – an Oreo-flavored soda, citrus and candy-tasting Coke Dreamworld, and Coke Starlight, which reportedly tasted like burnt caramel, Skittles, cherry Coke and watered-down strawberry soda.

Besides Coke Spiced, the company is also discontinuing Diet Coke with Splenda, and Cherry Vanilla, while also announcing plans to introduce a new flavor in 2025.

Acknowledging another failed flavor isn’t likely to make much difference to Coca-Cola (KO) and dent its 19.2% global market share of the soda market. In the company’s most recent earnings report, the beverage company enjoyed another strong quarter with a 15% gain in organic revenue and 10% increase in operating income.

With a strong core market and dedicated consumer base, Coca-Cola (KO) can experiment will any flavor it likes.