Coca-Cola brings back Diet Cherry Coke in limited-edition launch

Coca-Cola has relaunched Diet Cherry Coke in what is the first new flavour launch from the sub-brand in seven years.

Diet Cherry Coke was discontinued in 2020, after being launched by Coca-Cola in 1985.

However, it has now returned exclusively in Tesco stores, packaged in retro packaging celebrating its 1980s roots.

Multipacks of 24x330ml cans, 500ml bottles and two-litre bottles have gone on sale now for a limited time (rsp: TBC).

“We have been listening and are so excited to announce the return of Diet Cherry Coke,” said Tara Byrnes, senior brand manager for Diet Coke Great Britain. “The comeback of this retro icon is the tasty throwback that fans have been hoping for.

“Returning exclusively for a limited time, the flavour you love, cherry, is back – but get it while you can!”

Rob Yeomans, vice-president for commercial development at Coca-Cola Europacific Partners (CCEP) GB, added: “Diet Coke is the original sugar-free cola and has long been a loved and trusted brand in Great Britain.

“Combine this with the fact that cherry flavours have delivered 55% of value sales growth across total colas over the past year [NIQ 52 w/e 7 September 2024], and it’s clear that the return of Diet Cherry Coke gives us a great opportunity to excite shoppers and drive further growth.”

The NPD comes after Diet Coke sales slipped by 6.4% to £499m last year [NIQ 52 w/e 28 December 2024].