Introduction to Diet Coke with Lime
A gone-but-not-forgotten soda flavor is coming back to stores — but not for long. A spokesperson from the Coca-Cola Company confirmed to TODAY.com that Retro Diet Coke Lime will be returning to stores that carry the Coke brand nationwide starting Oct. 6.
History of Diet Coke with Lime
The flavor was a “breakout favorite” when it first launched in early 2004, according to the company, but was discontinued in 2018. It has remained available in Coca-Cola Freestyle machines, however. Now, after seven years, it returns in both bottle and can form.
Product Features
Retro Diet Coke Lime in a can. (Coca-Cola)
“What makes this return special is that it’s not just about taste; it’s about tapping into the nostalgia wave that’s dominating everything from fashion to film,” the brand said in a press release. For this drop, the diet cola is wrapped in retro-inspired packaging that “nods to the past” to appeal to both longtime fans and youngsters who’ve never tried it before.
Availability
The limited-time drop of Retro Diet Coke Lime will be available in 12-pack cans and single 20-ounce bottles nationwide, while supplies last. This is not the first time in recent memory that Coca-Cola has brought back a beloved-but-discontinued flavor to store shelves. In June, the brand confirmed to TODAY.com that Retro Diet Cherry Coke was returning after at least five years off the market.
Market Response
The vintage-style cans became available in mid-July for a limited time only at select stores, and were a “runaway success” that “proved just how much appetite there is for throwback flavors,” according to the company. When popular snack-spotting social media personality Markie Devo broke the news of Retro Diet Coke Lime’s return, his comments section was full of excited fans. “Omggggg yessss I add true lime packets to my Diet Coke every day so this is amazing,” one wrote. Many commenters said they wished it wasn’t just a limited release and that regular Coke with Lime (of “Put the lime in the Coke, you nut” fame) would make a comeback, too.
Conclusion
“Consumer demand for nostalgic favorites has never been stronger, and Diet Coke is listening,” said the company. The return of Diet Coke with Lime is a testament to the power of nostalgia in driving consumer demand. As the company continues to listen to its customers, it will be interesting to see what other retro flavors make a comeback in the future.
FAQs
Q: When will Retro Diet Coke Lime be available in stores?
A: Retro Diet Coke Lime will be available in stores starting Oct. 6.
Q: How long will Retro Diet Coke Lime be available?
A: The limited-time drop of Retro Diet Coke Lime will be available while supplies last.
Q: What packaging will Retro Diet Coke Lime be available in?
A: Retro Diet Coke Lime will be available in 12-pack cans and single 20-ounce bottles.
Q: Is this the first time Coca-Cola has brought back a discontinued flavor?
A: No, in June, the brand confirmed to TODAY.com that Retro Diet Cherry Coke was returning after at least five years off the market.
