Ah, Santa Claus. The jolly gent with a penchant for chimney
gymnastics, mince pies and a wardrobe so iconic that it puts Victoria Beckham
to shame. Few stories capture the magic of the holiday season quite like the
transformation of Santa Claus into the jolly red‑suited icon that we know
today. In the cosy glow of winter evenings, as we gather around mulled wine and
mince pies, one character remains ever‐present – Santa Claus.
But here’s a fizzy little secret – that cherry-red coat and snowy-white trim you associate with Father Christmas? Did you know that the jolly, red-clad figure we all cherish today owes much of his modern look to a series of ingenious Coca-Cola advertisements launched in 1931? Picture this – It’s 1931. The world is reeling from the Great Depression, Prohibition is in full swing in the U.S. and a plump man in a red suit is about to become the ultimate marketing tool. You can thank Coca-Cola’s 1931 marketing blitz for that. And no, Coca-Cola didn’t ‘invent’ Santa. The company played a seminal role in standardising his red and white persona.
Grab a cuppa, settle in and join up on this festive journey
through culture, history, humour and science. This tale involves artistic
genius, corporate cunning and festive conspiracy. Let’s dive into the epic tale
of how Coca-Cola, the very same brand that fuels your endless TikTok scrolling
and midnight snack binges somehow managed to take a crusty old saint and turn
him into the jolly, plump, red-clad icon we all know.
The OG gift-giver’s pre-Coke catwalk
Let’s rewind to pre-1931. Santa wasn’t always the red-suited
charmer we know. Long before Coca-Cola slapped him in red, Santa was a
sartorial wildcard. The image of Santa
Claus was as varied as the flavours at your local sweet shop. Think less ‘Ho
Ho Ho’ and more ‘Oh no, here comes the old geezer!”
Medieval mischief – Early European depictions of St.
Nicholas (the 4th century bishop who inspired Santa) showed him in
green or brown robes accessorised with a stern frown and a sack of gold (for
bribing naughty children, presumably). Imagine a 4thcentury bishop named St.
Nick rolling up in moss-green robes looking like he just lost a sword fight.
Zero rizz.
Victorian vibes – By the 19th century, he had morphed into a moody art hoe in blue velvet or purple silk basically the Billie Eilish of Christmas. Sometimes he even carried a stick to whack naughty kids. Dark. In the 1800s, American and British illustrators like John Leech (of A Christmas Carol fame) drew him in fur-trimmed mantles with sometimes red, often blue or purple. His vibe? A cross between a Tudor monarch and a tipsy uncle. Victorian era illustrations depicted him as everything from a stern bishop-like figure in green robes to a gnome-ish creature in animal skins.
The Nast-y truth – The OG meme lord. He drew Santa
skinny like a Victorian-era Timothée Chalamet. Pass the eggnog, please. Political
cartoonist Thomas Nast (the 19th century cartoonist) who shaped
Santa’s modern image dressed Santa for Harper’s Weekly in the 1860s-80s. He
gave Santa key details like a North Pole address or residency, workshop elves
and a red coat. But Nast’s Santa was lean, elflike and occasionally clad in
stars-and-stripes pyjamas (patriotism meets pyjama chic). He portrayed Santa in
red, blue, purple and once alarmingly, what looks like polka dots. Nast’s
illustrations (dating back to the 1860s) gradually consolidated the image of a
jolly, rotund Santa even though he experimented with different hues and styles.
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| Reproduction of an actual photograph of Thomas Nast |
Gaunt and gloomy to cheery and plump - Early depictions ranged from a lean stern old man with a pointed beard to a diminutive elf‐like figure.
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| Christmas postcard with illustration of Santa Claus attempting to insert frightened child into sack |
Diverse wardrobes - Santa was portrayed in colours varying from blue and green to even yellow which were all inspired by regional traditions and even by the ecclesiastical garments of Saint Nicholas. St. Nicholas was a 4thcentury bishop from Myra who was well-known for his generosity and for leaving coins in stockings, which let’s be honest, is way cooler than today’s gift cards. Santa’s look was as inconsistent as the latest TikTok trend with different regions giving him wildly different makeovers.
The problem? No consistency. Santa was less a global icon
and more a chaotic shapeshifter like a Christmas-themed David Bowie. Santa was
a composite of various European traditions and his appearance was far from
standardised. It was the early 20th century, however, when American
advertising started to shape public perceptions of the holiday season. In
short, Santa was already on his way to becoming a legend, but he needed a glow-up.
Enter Coca-Cola which was thirsting for a winter sales boost. And who better
than Coca-Cola to serve up that holiday makeover back then?
Coke’s plot
Enter 1931. Coca-Cola was like ‘How do we sell sugar
water in winter?’ Their answer – Hijack Santa Claus. In 1931, Coca‑Cola
took a bold leap while facing a slump in winter sales during the Great
Depression. The company commissioned Michigan-born artist Haddon Sundblom to
craft a series of heartwarming illustrations for it’s holiday advertisements
and to create a Santa that would make their ads pop. Cola = summer drink,
apparently, hired Sundblom to craft a Santa that screamed ‘cosy’ and ‘buy
Coke’. He basically became Santa’s Instagram filter. His inspo? A retired
salesman named Lou Prentiss (RIP, king) and his own reflection. Narcissism?
Maybe. Iconic? Absolutely.
The result? A Santa so huggable that he’d make a porcupine seem cuddly. Sundblom’s Santa guzzled Coke, chuckled at fridge raids and wore red and white like a boss. Sundblom’s version of Santa was a plump merry fellow with twinkling eyes, rosy cheeks and most notably, a striking red suit trimmed with crisp white fur. These images were not just advertisements but were cultural artefacts that resonated with a society longing for warmth during the harsh winter months. Over 30 years, these ads plastered billboards, magazines and public consciousness turning Santa into a walking Coke can. Sundblom’s original paintings once sold for £1.3 million. That’s roughly 260,000 Candy Canes.
Here’s what made Sundblom’s work so groundbreaking…
Inspirational source – Sundblom drew inspiration from
Clement Clarke Moore’s classic poem ‘‘Twas the Night Before Christmas’
which described Santa as friendly, warm and delightfully human.
Brand colours meet folklore – The artist’s palette
were of rich reds and crisp whites. It mirrored Coca-Cola’s iconic branding.
Although red had been worn by Santa in various forms before, Sundblom’s
consistent depiction transformed it into the standard.
The muse – Sundblom’s Santa was modelled on his
retired neighbour named Lou Prentiss who was a jovial salesman with a ‘grandfatherly’
glint. After Prentiss died, Sundblom used his own reflection quipping…
“I just made Santa look like me but happier”.
Colour psychology 101 – Coke’s brieffor Sundblom? Use Coca-Cola’s signature colours of red (for vibrancy) and white (for purity…or perhaps the froth on a Coke float). He had to compulsorily only use the brand’s FF0000 red and crisp white. Instead of a messy mashup of colours, our man Sundblom served up a sleek red suit trimmed with white fur that was exactly matching Coca-Cola’s signature look. Coke demanded their signature red not for festive vibes but because red makes you hungry (science fact!). Red wasn’t just festive but is scientifically addictive. Studies show red increases appetite and heart rate. Hence red is used in McDonald’s, KFC, sketchy gas station hot dogs, your local kebab shop and YouTube ads.
The ads that defined simp culture and ate Christmas –
From 1931 to 1964, Sundblom’s Santa starred in Coke ads guzzling Coke bottles, creepily
watching kids sleep, reading letters and lowkey flirting with mothers in
curlers (see 1959’s ‘Unexpected Guest’). For 30+ years, Sundblom’s Santa
was everywhere. The vibe? ‘I’m not a regular Santa, I’m a cool Santa’. The
message? Santa = Coke = Happiness.
Fan reactions? Hilariously serious – When tiny
details slipped (like a missing wedding ring — seriously, where’s Mrs Claus,
mate?), fans went ballistic. Imagine getting a text from your best friend
saying ‘Yo, Santa’s ring is MIA!’ That’s how iconic this image became.
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| Haddon Sundblom |
The campaign was an instant success by reaching millions and subtly standardising the image of Santa as a benevolent red‑clad figure. While it is a common misconception that Coca‑Cola invented Santa Claus, there is no doubt that the campaign cemented his modern image in the public consciousness. The red and white palette was not only eye‑catching but also symbolically evocative that suggested joy, warmth and a sense of festive tradition.
The colour psychology that you didn’t know you needed – Red, white and oh-so-festive!
Let’s break it down. Why does red make everything more
awesome? Because red screams energy, excitement and ‘Let’s get this party
started!’ When you pair it with white, it’s like the perfect insta filter
for holiday cheer.
Red is lit – In colour psychology, red grabs
attention like your most savage meme. It’s the colour of fire and passion.
White for that crisp contrast – White adds a bit of
class like the margin notes on your favourite viral essay. Together, red and
white create a look that’s as instantly recognisable as your most favoured
brand of sneakers.
Coca-Cola’s use of these colours wasn’t just for show. It was strategic genius. It gave Santa a look that’s as consistent as your daily dose of memes on social media.
Santa’s red scare – Coke v/s the world
Now, let’s address the elephant in the grotto. Did Coke
invent the red Santa? No. But they popularised it. Before Coca-Cola’s remix,
Santa was like that underground band that you only knew about from a dusty
Wikipedia article. But post-1931, he exploded into mainstream culture and
became the poster child for Christmas cheer worldwide. By the 1940s, their
Santa was the Santa, thanks to their relentless marketing. Coke’s ads were
everywhere just like glitter after a craft session. Coca-Cola didn’t just
popularise red but they weaponised it. Coke didn’t just invent Santa’s fit but
they even gatekept it.
White Rock’s L – In the 1920s, White Rock Beverages
used a red-and-white Santa to sell mineral water. But without Coke’s budget,
their Santa faded into obscurity like a Tesco-brand, Colin the Caterpillar. They
had the budget of a middle school bake sale so their Santa flopped harder than
Velma Season 1.
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| Published on December 13, 1923 in Life Magazine |
Pepsi’s failed sleigh coup – In the 1980s, Pepsi briefly dressed Santa in blue for a polarising ad campaign. Pepsi tried to rebrand Santa in blue. The backlash? Let’s just say that it made the New Coke look genius. Sales flatlined and Pepsi quietly reburied the idea (alongside Crystal Pepsi).
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| Blue colour branded Pepsi from 1982 |
The great Santa schism aka Finland’s delulu –
Finland’s ‘official’ Santa (who lives in Lapland btw) wears red and
white but insists his look predates Coke.
“We’ve always used red!”
…a spokesperson huffed in 2019. Sure, Jan. Next you’ll say
Mariah Carey invented Christmas. Historians remain skeptical.
 |
| This is the village of Santa Claus in Lapland (Finland) |
Global meme status – Thanks to Coca-Cola’s ads plastered across billboards, magazines and even early TV commercials (yeah, pre-YouTube era), Sundblom’s Santa became the image you instantly recognise. It’s like he went viral before ‘going viral’ was even a thing.
Tradition gets a turbo boost – This wasn’t just about
selling soda. It was about selling a lifestyle—a feeling of joy and warmth that
(let’s face it) we all desperately crave when our playlists are full of sad
TikTok tunes.
Cultural takeover – Today, whether you’re chilling in New York City or scrolling through your feed from the suburbs, that red-suit Santa is as omnipresent as those cheesy Christmas sweaters at your school dance.
"He looks like a mouldy avocado!”
“Bro looks like Shrek’s diabetic uncle”.
The science behind the magic
Ever wondered why red and white seem to make our hearts beat just a bit faster during the holidays? Colour psychology offers some fascinating insights. Red is often associated with energy, passion and excitement while white connotes purity and simplicity. Together, these hues create a visual harmony that is both instantly recognisable and uplifting. Research in consumer behaviour has long indicated that well‐chosen colours can trigger emotional responses and influence purchasing decisions. Colours can become a marketing powerhouse.
This scientific backing helped explain why Coca‑Cola’s
choice was so effective. In an era when television was still finding it’s feet
and print was king, the vibrant joyful images resonated deeply with consumers
in inviting them to share in the magic of the festive season.
Dr. Lena Patel who is a behavioural scientist notes that…
“Red is also culturally tied to joy and luck in many countries making Santa’s coat subconsciously reassuring”.
Beyond aesthetics, there’s a fascinating science at work. Also,
consistency breeds recognition. By repeating these images across billboards, magazines
and store displays, Coca-Cola ensured that Sundblom’s Santa became instantly
recognisable true cultural icon. Dr. Karen Schloss (UC Berkeley) found that
people associate red with ‘holiday cheer’ more than any other colour. She
says...
“It’s primal. Like seeing a ripe berry in winter”.
Modern-day twist – In the year 2023, Pantone named ‘Peach
Fuzz’ as it’s Colour Of The Year. Festive? No. Santa’s response? ‘Hard
pass’.
Santa’s cultural conquest
Cultural historians and marketing gurus alike continue to
debate the extent of Coca‑Cola’s influence on modern Santa’s imagery. Dr Jane
Harrington is a renowned expert in cultural branding and muses that…
“While Santa Claus had many predecessors, the 1931 campaign distilled his image into something universally recognisable. It’s a brilliant example of how commercial art can intersect with cultural folklore”.
Such expert insights show that beyond the commercial
success, there was (and remains) a profound cultural impact. Even scientists
have chimed in with studies demonstrating how the consistent use of red and
white in branding not only increases brand recall but also enhances the overall
consumer experience. The success of Coca‑Cola’s festive ads is a testament to
how smart, emotive design can stand the test of time and influence our brain
chemistry in subtle ways!
Coca-Cola’s Santa transcended the realm of advertising to become part of global Christmas lore. Here’s how…
Universal appeal – As Coca-Cola expanded it’s reach
internationally, so did it’s version of Santa Claus. Today, whether in bustling
London or a quaint village in Spain, the red-clad Santa is recognised
worldwide.
Tradition reinvented – Although Santa’s image has
deep historical roots from the Dutch ‘Sinterklaas’ to Victorian Father
Christmas, the Coca-Cola campaign cemented his appearance as part of the modern
holiday ritual.
Marketing masterstroke – This wasn’t just about
selling a soft drink because it was about selling community, happiness and a
return to simpler times. Many families now associate the mere sight of a Coca-Cola
Christmas truck with the excitement of the holiday season.
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| Sundblom's drew this particular Santa in 1952 |
Dr Jane Harrington who is a cultural branding specialist, opines…
“Sundblom’s paintings didn’t create Santa Claus but they did refine and unite his image — transforming a patchwork of regional myths into a single enduring symbol of festive joy”.
Coke’s Santa became the ultimate influencer
Hollywood hijinks – Classic films like Miracle on
34th Street (1947) and Santa Claus Conquers the Martians (1964) solidified the
red suit in pop culture. The latter’s Santa costume was rented from a New York
party shop for $50. Films like Elf and The Santa Clause made red Santa canon. Tim
Allen’s Santa suit cost more than your entire Shein cart.
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| Pic credit - Walt Disney Pictures |
Retail revolution – Department stores like Macy’s and Selfridges used Sundblom-style Santas to lure shoppers which created the ‘Santa’s Grotto’ tradition. The first recorded grotto debuted in Lytham St. Annes (UK) in 1888. It predated Coke’s ads but postdated St. Nick’s green phase.
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| Santa's Grotto, Westfield shopping centre in UK |
Digital dominance – Even in 2024’s Fortnite Christmas events, Santa’s avatar wears red and white. Meanwhile, AI art tools like DALLE struggle to render him in other colours without looking ‘cursed’ (as per Reddit users).
Foodie footnote – Why do mince pies pair with Santa?
The spices (cinnamon and nutmeg) mirror Coke’s original 1886 formula which
contained coca leaves and kola nuts. Festive synergy!
Mall Santas – Ever wonder why every mall Santa looks
like he’s cosplaying a Coke can? Blame Sundblom. Pro tip…kids, If he asks what
you want, say ‘Bitcoin’.
 |
| A mall Santa at work |
TikTokification – In 2023, Coke dropped a Santa AI filter that gave you red face and a white beard. It got 2M views before someone pointed out it looked like Santa from Wish.
Snack theory – Santa’s red/white combo matches candy canes, peppermint mochas and Target’s holiday aisles. Coincidence? Capitalism says no.
Controversies and debates – Myth versus reality
Some critics argue that attributing Santa’s modern image
solely to Coca‑Cola oversimplifies a much richer history. They contend that the
roots of Santa Claus extend back centuries which is woven from various cultural
and religious traditions. Yet, others insist that Coca‑Cola’s ads played an
undeniable role in unifying these disparate images into one coherent and
marketable icon. This debate is sometimes fuelled by cultural critics and passionate
historians. It is a complex interplay between art, commerce and tradition.
Whether viewed as a clever marketing ploy or a genuine cultural milestone, Coca‑Cola’s
influence on the Santa myth remains a fascinating chapter in the annals of
advertising history.
A delicious slice of festive culture
Christmas in Britain is as much about the food as it is
about the festivities. From the sumptuous Christmas pudding to the crispy mince
pies, our holiday table is a cornucopia of culinary delights. It’s perhaps no
surprise that Santa’s image that is so effectively crafted by Coca‑Cola, has
become intertwined with these traditions. After all, nothing says ‘festive’
like a burst of red and white on your plate whether it is a slice of strawberry
cake or a festive cocktail garnished with holly.
 |
| The Busan Christmas Tree Festival |
The cultural tapestry of Christmas is enriched by the blending of food, folklore and yes, even advertising. Today, as we savour our seasonal treats, we might also take a moment to appreciate the quirky historical twist that has shaped our collective imagination.
From ads to AI – Modern-day Santa
Fast forward to today, you’ll still find echoes of that 1931
brilliance. In recent years, Coca‑Cola has periodically revisited Sundblom’s
iconic imagery in it’s holiday campaigns by blending modern marketing
techniques with nostalgia. Coca-Cola hasn’t rested on it’s laurels. Over the
decades, the company has continually refreshed it’s holiday campaigns…
From print to TV and beyond – After Sundblom’s era of
billboard dominance and magazine, the 1990s saw the introduction of the iconic Coca-Cola
Christmas truck adverts. These high-budget cinematic spots complete with the
catchy ‘Holidays are Coming’ jingle, became a much-anticipated annual
event.
Embracing technology – Fast forward to 2024 and Coca-Cola
is experimenting with AI to reimagine it’s Christmas narrative. While the new
advert has sparked mixed reactions, it highlights the company’s commitment to
innovation even while honouring tradition.
Interactive experiences – Today, festive campaigns often include augmented reality experiences, social media activations, interactive displays and magazine that allow consumers to “meet” Santa in virtual settings which is bridging the gap between modern tech and nostalgia.
Limited edition drink – In November 2023, a limited-edition ‘Santa’s Coat’
Coke can was dropped in the UK which was selling out faster than hot roast
chestnuts. The design? Red and white naturellement.
Coca-Cola’s Santa is still sleighing in 2024 – Their
latest Christmas campaign features a TikTok-friendly Santa doing the ‘Jerusalema’
dance with elves. Meanwhile, AI-generated art trends have sparked debates. Can
a robot capture Sundblom’s warmth? (Spoiler – It’s creepy. Stick to humans).
This fusion of old and new highlights how a well‑crafted brand identity can evolve while still retaining it’s original charm. In our fast‑paced tech‑driven world, it’s comforting to know that some traditions like Santa’s warm smile and signature red suit, remain constant.
Cringe, NFTs, tourism, veganism and vegan leather – Santa’s future
What’s next for the big man and our capitalist king?
Digital Santa – In 2022, Coca-Cola auctioned Santa-themed
NFTs including a ‘Pixel Claus’ that sold for $575k. Critics called it ‘the
Grinch’s crypto scheme’. The buyer?
Probably the same guy who bought a JPEG of a monkey.
 |
| (Not the actual Pixel Claus which was sold) |
Vegan Santas – PETA’s 2023 campaign urged Santas to ditch leather belts for vegan alternatives.
“Reindeer-friendly fashion matters”.
…their press release clattered. PETA’s pushing for fauxfur
suits. ‘Santa’s about giving; not leather” they tweeted. ‘Tell that
to his belt’ was the reply in comments.
 |
| Source - PETAAsia.com |
Space-X'mas – Jeff Bezos wants to launch Santa into orbit. Because nothing says ‘Christmas’ like a billionaire exploiting elves for clout. Jeff Bezos’ Blue Origin offered a ‘Santa’s Sleigh’ space tour in 2024. The catch? Zero-gravity mince pies.
A philosophical roast – Is Santa a sellout?
Purists argue Coke ‘commercialised’ a folk hero. Boomers
say Coke ‘ruined Christmas’. Historians say Santa’s a ‘cultural
collage’. Gen Z says that ‘he’s a vibe’. But Dr. Sam Buntz
(Dartmouth College) counters with…
“Santa’s adaptability is his power. He’s a mirror for our
hopes whether that’s 4thcentury charity or 21st century TikTok
virality”.
So, next time you spot Santa’s crimson coat, remember that it’s not a colour or just a jolly gift-giver. It’s a 500-year-old story stitched together by artists, monks and a soda company that fancied a festive flex. He’s a walking ad, a capitalist mascot and proof that even saints need a PR team.
Fun (and totally weird) Santa trivia for your next group chat
Need some quirky tidbits to drop into your next conversation
or online rant about holiday hype? Here are a few nuggets that’ll have your
friends saying ‘Wait, really?’.
Origins of Santa’s gear – Although many credit Coca‑Cola
for Santa’s red suit, historical records reveal that Santa had been depicted in
red long before 1931. Contrary to the popular myth, the red suit was not
invented by Coca-Cola. It’s roots can be traced back to the vestments of Saint
Nicholas and even the illustrations of Thomas Nast. Coca‑Cola simply
popularised that particular image.
Santa’s diet – While it’s tempting to imagine Santa
chugging a bottle of Coke after a long night of chimney descending, tradition
favours cookies and milk or in Britain, perhaps a mince pie and a spot of tea!
Holiday habits – Some marketing experts joke that the success of Coca‑Cola’s ads is responsible for an extra helping of Christmas cheer in our diets. After all, if Santa’s appearance can boost our festive spirit’s, imagine what a clever ad campaign can do for our appetite!
Cultural variations – In parts of Europe such as the Germany
and Netherlands, Santa (Weihnachtsmann or Sinterklaas) appears with slight
differences. They are sometimes even in colours like blue or green which show a
rich tapestry of traditions.
Fan frenzy over details – In one famous instance,
fans wrote in when they noticed Santa in a Coca-Cola ad appeared to be missing
his wedding ring and were questioning if Mrs Claus had been forgotten. Fans
bombarded Coca-Cola with letters. Imagine if Twitter exploded every time
someone forgot to tag their ex in a post!
Modern AI adventures – Recently, Coca-Cola’s 2024 AI-generated
Christmas advert stirred debate when traditionalists noticed the absence of a ‘real’
Santa. The Christmas ad that left viewers fuming . Critics lamented that
nostalgia and tangible warmth were being replaced by digital renderings. Apparently,
nothing says ‘Merry Christmas’ like a digital Santa that looks like he
was filtered through a glitchy Snapchat lens. It proves that even a century-old
icon can be polarising when updated.
Before the Coke glow-up – Santa’s outfit wasn’t
always red. He once rocked a whole spectrum of colours as if he couldn’t decide
which one was cooler.
Earlier soft-drink Santa – White Rock Beverages used
Santa in ads way back in 1915. Actually, they were the first ever company to
use Santa in ads which was long before Coca-Cola’s big break. So, Coke wasn’t
the first Santa hustler but they sure perfected the look.
Australia – In 1920s, Santa was sometimes shown in a parasol and swim trunks, and then delivering presents via kangaroo. Australia’s Santa said no to snow and showed up in speedos and a sunhat. Santa, sir, this is a Wendy’s. Global branding? Not quite.
White Rock Beverages was actually the first soft drink
company to use Santa in ads (as early as 1915)
Sundblom’s real-life muse was his friend Lou Prentiss who
was a retired salesman whose jolly demeanour helped shape the image of our
modern Santa.
Sundblom’s Santa was so popular that the U.S. Postal Service
used his design for stamps in the 1960s. Take that, Royal Mail.
Sundblom’s original Santa paintings today costs more than
your college tuition. One of them sold for $1.3M.
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| Pic credit - Unremembered |
The world’s largest Santa costume (certified by Guinness in 2022) was sewn in Thailand by using 1,200 metres of fire-resistant fabric. The world’s largest Santa suit is fire-resistant. So yeah, he’s surviving the climate crisis, ho ho ho!
Marketing takeaways – Branding is everything, mate!
If you think this is just another dusty corporate tale,
think again. Coca-Cola’s transformation of Santa teaches us some hardcore
lessons about branding, marketing and the power of a good meme. For marketers
looking to replicate such success, there are some really enduring lessons from Coca-Cola’s
Santa campaign.
Emotional storytelling sells – It’s not just about a
product but also about creating an emotional connection. Coca-Cola made you
feel something — be it nostalgia, joy or even mild irritation at a missing
ring. Craft narratives that resonate emotionally. The warmth of a well-told
Christmas tale builds lasting brand loyalty.
Consistency is king – That red-and-white combo has
become so iconic because it was repeated everywhere. Consistency in branding is
like having the perfect Instagram aesthetic. Whether through colour schemes,
imagery or messaging, maintaining consistency helps in creating a memorable
brand identity.
Cultural relevance – Tap into universal traditions.
Santa Claus is more than an ad figure. It is a cultural icon that spans
generations and geographies. When you tap into something as universally
cherished as Christmas traditions, you are not just selling a drink but a vibe.
And that vibe? It’s as powerful as the latest viral dance challenge.
Adaptation without alienation – Innovation is
important but so is staying true to what your audience loves. Coca-Cola’s
delicate balance of modernity and tradition is a prime example.
Quality visuals matter – Investing in advertisements
and high-quality illustrations can yield assets that become timeless works of
art that can be admired in galleries and museums alike.
Adapt or get feft behind – Even after nearly a century, Coca-Cola keeps evolving it’s holiday ads from print to TV and now even AI. It is the digital age so if you’re not innovating, you are actually invisible.
More than just a soda peddler – Santa’s legacy
Coca‑Cola’s 1931 holiday campaign is more than just a series
of advertisements. It iss a phenomenon that forever altered the landscape of
Christmas. Through clever use of colour, engaging storytelling and a pinch of
festive magic, Coca‑Cola helped solidify the image of Santa Claus as a warm
generous red‑clad icon. The legacy of these ads is evident in every twinkling
light, every festive billboard and every shared moment of holiday joy.
Love it or loathe it, Coke’s Santa reshaped Christmas. His
colours dominate holiday décor, movies and even your aunt’s questionable
knitwear. But let’s not villainise Coke entirely. They also gave us the iconic
Christmas truck tour and the UK phenomenon since 1995. Next time you see a
Santa, whisper ‘Thank you, Sundblom’. He’ll nod sagely.
As you unwrap your gifts this year, spare a thought for the enduring impact of a well‑crafted image. Santa Claus is a reminder of how culture is shaped. So, here’s to a festive season this year-end in 2025 filled with joy, laughter and perhaps a cheeky sip of Coke — after all, it’s the drink that helped bring Santa to life!
Wrapping it up – Cheers to a red-hot Christmas
In an age of anti-consumerism, some grumble that Santa’s
Coke ties are problematic. Yet, as author J.R. Brubaker quips…
“Santa transcends branding. He’s a mirror of our nostalgia”.
So, whether you’re Team Coca-Cola or Team ‘Santa Was
Green Actually’, one thing’s clear that Christmas without red and white
would be like a turkey without stuffing. Technically edible but deeply
wrong.
Coca-Cola’s 1931 advertising campaign may not have invented
Santa Claus but it undeniably refined and popularised the image which defines
modern Christmas. Take a moment to appreciate the rich tapestry of art, clever
branding that brought him to life and the history. After all, the magic of
Christmas is as much about the stories we share as it is about the traditions
we keep. Here’s to Santa, Coke and the skill of turning history into a meme
that never goes out of style. Now go on, share this story with your mates because
nothing says ‘Happy Holidays’ like knowing the real tea behind your
favourite festive icon.
Prank – Tag someone who still thinks Santa’s real 😂 (JK, I
know it’s you).
#santaclaus #cocacola #christmas #holidays #redandwhite #1930 #origins #fact #fun #drink #coke #us #unitedstates #america
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