The Power Shift: Coca-Cola’s Bold Bet to Invest in AI, Not Web3

Harish Dhingra
𝐀𝐈 𝐦𝐨𝐧𝐤𝐬.𝐢𝐨
3 min readMay 20, 2023

Picture this: A room full of marketers eagerly waiting to hear the next big thing in advertising. Suddenly, Pratik Thakar, the creative strategy head at Coca-Cola, takes the stage at AdAge’s Web3 Marketing Summit. With a mischievous grin, he drops a bombshell: “Invest in AI, not Web3!” The room erupts in gasps and whispers as Thakar challenges the status quo, proclaiming that AI holds the key to a marketing revolution. In this blog post, we’ll unravel Coca-Cola’s captivating journey into the realm of AI, explore the rise and fall of Web3, and reveal the exciting possibilities that emerge when these technologies collide.

AI’s Tangible Contributions to Advertising

Imagine a world where machines work seamlessly alongside marketers, transforming data into captivating experiences. Well, that’s precisely the reality AI has brought to the advertising landscape. Marketers are harnessing the power of AI to automate customer interactions, integrate complex data effortlessly, and create personalised campaigns that leave consumers in awe. In fact, a recent Salesforce survey revealed that a staggering 90% of marketers are already using AI in their strategies. But that’s just the tip of the iceberg. Generative AI platforms like Midjourney are enabling major brands like Coca-Cola to unleash their creative prowess while saving heaps on production costs. It’s like having a team of tireless artists at your disposal, generating stunning visuals at the click of a button.

Web3’s Fading Relevance

Once upon a time, Web3 technologies burst onto the scene, shimmering with the promise of a digital utopia. But as the hype subsided, cracks in the armour began to show. Cryptocurrency exchanges faced their fair share of challenges, NFT values took a nosedive, and Metaverse platforms hit a few roadblocks on the way to advertising nirvana. Even Meta (formerly Facebook) decided to hit the pause button on its virtual reality dreams. The buzz that once surrounded Web3 has faded, leaving marketers scratching their heads and reevaluating its role in their grand schemes.

Coca-Cola’s AI Adventure

In a world where copyright concerns loom large, Coca-Cola decided to take a leap of faith into the realm of generative AI. With a twinkle in their eyes, the Coca-Cola team launched a consumer-facing AI tool that exclusively utilizes their own assets, sidestepping the pesky legal hurdles that stifle creativity. It’s a bold move that showcases Coca-Cola’s unwavering commitment to innovation and their relentless pursuit of new avenues for captivating content creation. By diving headfirst into the realm of AI, Coca-Cola is boldly carving its path toward marketing greatness.

The Coexistence of AI and Web3

While AI steals the limelight in Coca-Cola’s marketing strategy, Web3 technologies refuse to fade into the background completely. Platforms like Roblox and Fortnite continue to lure brands, enticing them with immersive experiences that speak directly to the hearts of the elusive Gen Z audience. The secret lies in blending the data-driven insights of AI with the decentralised wonders of Web3. This unholy union opens up a world of endless possibilities, where hyper-personalised campaigns dance hand in hand with immersive Metaverse experiences, leaving audiences spellbound and eager for more.

Coca-Cola’s dedication to generative AI solidifies its influence in advertising. Web3 platforms like Roblox and Fortnite remain appealing for brands seeking to engage young audiences. Both AI and Web3 present exciting opportunities for innovative marketing approaches. Embrace the evolving landscape and be at the forefront of shaping the future of advertising! Let creativity guide your path to success in this dynamic realm. The possibilities are limitless, so seize the moment and make your mark.

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