It's a cultural icon. It's a work of art. It's the Coca-Cola bottle. No matter where you're from, you can always identify what Raymond Loewry deemed the "perfect liquid wrapper."
It might not be sold in Coke vending machines anymore, but the history of the bottle itself is quite elaborate and continues to evolve in its own way. But why are we so enamored with it? What makes it more than just another package for a product? Here are six reasons why the Coca-Cola bottle will forever be the world's greatest product package.
1. How it began
In response to growing concerns over competitors such as Koka-Nola producing a similar product, Coca-Cola wanted a distinct bottle, something they could call their own. As Harold Hirsch, the company's lead attorney at the time, explained: "We are not building Coca-Cola alone for today. We are building Coca-Cola forever, and it is our hope that Coca-Cola will remain the National drink to the end of time." And build it, they did. About ten glass companies bid on the project, but the Root Glass Company in Terre Haute, IN won.
2. Its unique shape
Earl R. Dean is credited with having designed the bottle. He drew inspiration for the uniquely fluted and curved bottle from pictures of a cacao pod. That was over 100 years ago, and the bottle has more or less remained the same.
3. It's the first product to be featured on the cover of Time Magazine
When asked to be featured on the cover, Robert Woodruff declined and stated that the brand is more important. Thus, the first consumer product was featured on the cover.
4. It's the original six pack
As home refrigerators became more common in the 1920's, Coca-Cola created a carton to hold six bottles at a time and encouraged consumers to bring them home to enjoy. And the first "six pack" was born.
5. In a glass of its own
The glass used to make the original bottles was called 'German Green.' But after WWI, it became 'Georgia Green' to represent the state in which the drink was created.
6. Dali and Warhol painted it
Perhaps more famously painted by Andy Warhol in 1962, Salvadore Dali also used it in his 1943 work, Poetry in America.
Frequently Asked Questions About Coca-Cola Bottles
Why is the Coca-Cola bottle considered a cultural icon?
The Coca-Cola bottle is recognized worldwide for its unique design and cultural significance. It is often called the "perfect liquid wrapper" and is easily identifiable regardless of where you are from.
Who designed the unique shape of the Coca-Cola bottle?
Earl R. Dean designed the Coca-Cola bottle, drawing inspiration from pictures of a cacao pod. This distinctive fluted and curved shape has remained largely unchanged for over 100 years.
What was the reason behind creating a distinct Coca-Cola bottle?
Coca-Cola wanted a unique bottle to differentiate itself from competitors like Koka-Nola. The goal was to create a lasting and recognizable package that would represent the brand forever.
What is significant about the Coca-Cola bottle and Time Magazine?
The Coca-Cola bottle was the first consumer product to be featured on the cover of Time Magazine, highlighting its importance as a brand and cultural symbol.
How did the Coca-Cola six-pack come about?
As home refrigerators became common in the 1920s, Coca-Cola introduced a carton to hold six bottles, encouraging consumers to take them home. This innovation led to the creation of the first "six pack."
What is the story behind the glass color used in Coca-Cola bottles?
The original glass was called "German Green," but after World War I, it was renamed "Georgia Green" to honor the state where Coca-Cola was created.
Which famous artists have featured the Coca-Cola bottle in their work?
Salvador Dali and Andy Warhol famously painted the Coca-Cola bottle, with Warhol's work dating to 1962 and Dali's to 1943, showcasing the bottle's influence in art.
