This Is What They’re Doing to You—Be Wise

I recently visited a store to pick up a few items when I noticed an interesting exchange. A woman came in to buy a drink and the seller asked, "Zero Coke or Original?" Also, she asked of the prices: ₦450 for Original and ₦350 for Zero Coke (ZC). Intriguingly, the ZC bottle was larger but cheaper.

As a baddie wey she be, based on say one correct guy dey on the side, me, she no wan act cheap, so the went for the pricier one, original.

Out of curiosity, at another store, I decided to explore further. I asked for Fanta, although I’ve largely cut out 95% of commercially made drinks, favoring what I can prepare myself at home. For the sake of clarity, I struck up a conversation with the elderly vendor. He chuckled as he shared his opinion: “They taste the same—I’ve tried them several times.”

I decided to put it to the test. I purchased both versions, did a blind taste and sure enough, he was right. They tasted identical.

So, what’s going on here? It’s a masterclass in psychology and marketing. By leveraging subtle cues and strategic branding, Coca-Cola creates a perception of choice and exclusivity, playing on human pride, preference, and even health consciousness. Let’s break it down:

1. The Power of Words:

Calling one “Original” appeals to people’s natural inclination toward authenticity and quality. By associating the word "original" with exclusivity, they tap into pride. The smaller size and higher price reinforce the idea that it’s premium. The same thing big brands like Ferrari, Bugatti, etc. do. The small but might ideology.

“Zero Coke,” on the other hand, caters to health-conscious individuals by emphasizing “zero sugar.” Its larger size and lower price signal a practical choice, suggesting value over prestige. 

I digress: The health industry seems to have infiltrated the marketing sector of most consumable companies to keep the people sick.

How you go call am zero coke but it's same with the other one people that hate sugar are trying to avoid.

You even make it bigger so that they'll die of what they're running from or at least, run to the hospital for help, hence making the doctor and the pharmaceutical moguls richer at the expense of poor people whom they deceived to drink more sugary consumables at a cheaper rate.

Oh, I get it. You pay cheaper to drink more, then you pay higher at the hospital from all the money you've been saving from buying cheaper, but voluminous unhealthy coke.

2. Branding Strategy:

The higher price tag on the "Original" attracts those who equate cost with quality, especially individuals who take pride in choosing what they perceive to be the "real deal."

Simultaneously, the larger ZC bottle targets budget-conscious buyers who prioritize quantity or are mindful of sugar intake.

3. Psychological Manipulation:

In reality, both products are identical in taste and likely cost the company  different amount to produce. Yet, they’ve segmented the market beautifully, appealing to different audiences and maximizing profit.

Lessons for Life and Business

Language Matters: The words you choose can shape perceptions. Whether in business, relationships, or even casual conversations, the way you frame your message is powerful.

Know Your Audience: Just as Coca-Cola tailors its products to different customer bases, you must identify and appeal to the unique needs or desires of your audience, clients, or stakeholders.

Create a Perception of Value: People pay for perceived worth, not just tangible benefits. Learn to craft a narrative that highlights exclusivity, scarcity, or health benefits.

To bring this closer to home, think of it as wanting the wit and intelligence of Laycon wrapped in the physique of Kidwaya, as that girl wanted. You’re drawn to the perfect balance, yet the reality is that nothing is truly perfect. Everything is crafted to appeal to your desires.

So, the next time you encounter such choices, remember: The words, the pricing, and the branding are not just innocent decisions. They’re designed to influence your mind and, ultimately, your wallet. Stay sharp and keep your cutlass ready.

Coke contains. blend of aspartame and acesulfame potassium (or Ace-K).

Just avoid coke in general and drink water.

Hmm.. I'll advise you not to take those drinks.. they look fake.

Some of us have been trying for years to stop taking them, yet I'm still struggling... But I always make sure to drink enough water after drinking a glass of it.

I now try to only drink Pepsi light.

hucknall:
Coke contains. blend of aspartame and acesulfame potassium (or Ace-K).

Just avoid coke in general and drink water.

I legend is back again with the fake life

The ability to use words is a superpower.

Language is a free gift everyone has. However, many are bound because they don't know how to construct words, twist words, or make use of words.

Before power there's language. Language is a component of words. There's no power without words. Because words are the expression of power. And we know you have power based on your words.

That's why I agree with people who say that what we label as truth and fact are subjective. My preference remains objective though.

However, if you come to look at it, even the terms "truth and fact" are words coined by some group of people who, through their power, have propagated it globally.

So, what you call truth is probably a lie that has been cooked severally with plenty of mouths and accepted by all. Examples: Gods, myths, and Religion.

It comes down to the power of words. The ability to use your mouth to get what you want. Leveraging the margin of error in human psychology to get what you want - power, wealth, and status.

Nice post man.

Thanks.

All facts, I don't see any need to go further. People do not really understand how much dark psychology and manipulation is being used on us daily. Matter of fact, it is evident in all aspects of life.

About that Zero Sugar coke? I drank it recently and I was surprised that it was just as sugary as the "normal" one. I laughed in my mind and shook off the surprise.