Coca-Cola, a brand synonymous with holiday advertising, is taking its nearly century-long tradition of Santa-themed campaigns to new heights this season. Their latest campaign, “The World Needs More Santas,” creatively reimagines a world where everyone embodies the spirit of Santa Claus – from everyday heroes like firefighters and taxi drivers to the more unexpected like skateboarders and gym enthusiasts. This heartwarming campaign, set to the tune of “I Could Be Santa Claus” by Celeste, aims to capture and spread the essence of kindness and generosity.
Enhancing this festive narrative, Coca-Cola has integrated an array of digital and in-person experiences. At the forefront is a unique “Find Your Inner Santa” quiz, available on the brand’s app and mobile websites. This interactive feature engages users by identifying their personal “inner Santa” persona and encourages social media sharing with custom illustrations. Further digital engagement is driven by on-pack QR codes, which not only direct consumers to the quiz but also offer opportunities to win exciting prizes, including a dream trip to Rovaniemi, Finland – widely recognized as Santa Claus’s official hometown.
In addition to the digital outreach, Coca-Cola is bringing holiday cheer to the streets with its iconic Christmas Truck Tour. This year, the tour offers an immersive experience, allowing visitors in select markets to send digital seasonal greetings, indulge in local culinary delights, and engage with charitable organizations.
Coca-Cola’s out-of-home advertising strategy is also extensive, covering over 80 markets. These ads not only enhance brand visibility but also direct consumers towards the interactive quiz, seamlessly blending traditional advertising with digital engagement.
Coca-Cola’s innovative approach in blending AI and digital experiences with their traditional holiday campaign is a brilliant move in today’s digitally driven market. For marketers, it’s a masterclass in leveraging technology to revitalize classic themes and engage with audiences in meaningful, modern ways. By combining the nostalgic appeal of Santa with interactive digital elements, Coke demonstrates how brands can create holistic and memorable campaigns that resonate across various consumer touchpoints. This campaign is a testament to the power of integrating digital innovation with traditional advertising to create more engaging, personalized, and memorable experiences for consumers.
