Kofola was created in 1960 at the Research Institute of Medicinal Plants in Prague. For some, it is certainly a symbol of their youth, when it was a more affordable and healthier alternative to “Western” colas.
Kofola, a cult Czechoslovak beverage, went on sale in 1960.
- Originally, it was bottled exclusively in the iconic 0.33-liter glass bottles, which were returned in string bags. 🙂
- In the 1990s (starting in 1998), PET bottles (0.5 L, 2 L) were introduced
- later in 2003, cans,
- The modern design of the bottles (0.5 L and 1 L) was introduced in 2010 to mark the 50th anniversary.
1. Trade Secret: Kofocola Syrup
- Kofola doesn’t have a patent on its taste. Why? Because if you patent something, you have to reveal exactly what it’s made of and how it’s made in the patent application. After 20 years, the patent expires, and anyone can make it.
- Reality: Kofola protects its recipe as a trade secret. Only a select few people in the world know the exact composition of Kofocola syrup (a blend of 14 herbs and fruit extracts). It is locked away in a safe, much like the Coca-Cola recipe.
Source: https://www.kofola.sk/nasa-historia
2. Trademark: The name and typeface “
” The word “Kofola,” written in its distinctive serif typeface, is a registered trademark.
Why this is important: In the 1990s, following the revolution, a flood of imitations appeared (various “Kofolas” from other manufacturers). The original owner had to engage in lengthy legal battles to prove that the name Kofola belongs to only one original brand.
3. Design: The shape of the glass bottle
You surely remember those classic one-liter glass bottles with metal caps that were returnable.
The specific shape of the bottle, which has been associated with the beverage for decades, can be protected as a design. This helps the brand stand out—even just by touch.
A little gem to wrap things up: “If you love her, there’s nothing to worry about”
…We should also mention that even famous advertising slogans can be protected. If someone comes up with a brilliant phrase that people will remember, they don’t want their competitors to use it.
“The story of Kofola teaches us that sometimes the best protection for an idea is secrecy (trade secret), but to stand out in a crowd, you need a strong name, a recognizable face, a brand, and a design.” That’s why we can protect the intellectual property of a single idea in multiple ways.