If you have tried Peruvian cuisine before, you may have an idea of how much passion Peruvians feel for Inca Kola. This yellow, gummy-flavored soft drink has been charming Peruvian and foreign palates almost for a century. Join us as we see why it’s so special for Peruvians, and why it’s a model for Peruvian companies.
The beginnings
The story of this beloved soft drink is quite fascinating! It all began in 1910 when a British couple, Don José R. Lindley and Doña Martha Stoppanie de Lindley, moved to Peru and settled in the lovely Rímac district in Lima.
Later, the Lindley Family founded and started the Santa Rosa Carbonated Water Factory. In the beginning, the production of their products was homemade, and among the products were soft drinks like lemon squash, orange squash, etc.
But, after 25 long years of dedication and creativity, the company, now called José R. Lindley e Hijos S.A., proudly launched the first Inca Kola on January 18, 1935. With the catchy slogan, “Inca Kola, there’s only one, and it’s like no other,” this new soft drink was a heartfelt gift to the country that welcomed their family.
Johny Lindley, the founder’s grandson stated that “the magic of Inca Kola lies in its unique flavor”. He also said that the characteristic yellow color is inspired by Peru’s gold, and that’s why its taste is truly one-of-a-kind.
The flavors secret
In 1945, Isaac Lindley, one of the founding couple’s children, took the reins of the company. He quickly made some exciting changes that helped Inca Kola gain popularity. Additionally, he partnered with several bottlers to produce Inca Kola using a concentrate provided by the company.
About Inca kola’s flavor, some people say it tastes like bubblegum, others say it tastes like candy. Well, that’s why Inca Kola is unique: Because of its flavor. Nobody can exactly relate to or identify its flavor, which is the secret of its success.
However, later it was confirmed that the main ingredient is “hierba luisa” (a plant similar to lemon grass in english), When they combine it with other ingredients, the result is the unique and characteristic flavor of inca kola
The war against Coca-Cola
One of the most curious events it’s how Inca Kola could beat Coca-Cola in the Peruvian market. The multinational company arrived in Peru in 1936. Just like the rest of the countries Coca-Cola breaks into, they thought they could conquer Peruvian palates.
What they don’t know is that Inca Kola at the time was already one of the most preferred drinks of Peruvian people. The great difference was that Inca Kola identified as Peruvian thanks to slogans such as “The flavor of Peru” “The national Peruvian drink” or “Let’s celebrate with Peru”.
Coca-Cola even tried to modify their recipe only for the Peruvian market, but once again, they failed. After spending millions of dollars to fight the local brand, Coca-Cola conceded defeat and offered to buy Inca Kola from the Lindleys.
Coca-Cola bought 40% of the company in 1999, with around 300 US$. The agreement made it possible for the gigantic soda company to use the rights to distribute Inca Kola outside the country.
Marketing Campaigns
Even before the black and white TV, Inca Kola’s marketing campaigns have been important to its continued success. The brand has skillfully connected with Peruvian culture by focusing on celebrating traditions and national pride.
Inca Kola has used TV ads, radio ads, and recently social media, and local event sponsorships to strengthen its image and bond with consumers. Adapting to all the changes in our country, many Peruvians remember at least one advertising of Inca Kola.
Peruvian Food that goes well with Inca Kola
Ceviche: Peru’s national dish is the pride of its people. This fresh and citric-flavored dish is one of the most preferred dishes among the vast Peruvian cuisine. When eating a ceviche what cannot miss next to it is an Inca Kola.
Pollo a la Brasa: This grilled chicken is the most preferred fast food dish for Peruvians. The strong flavor of the chicken, combined with crunchy french fries with an array of Peruvian sauces it’s just beautiful. And, obviously, it goes well with Inca kola.
Creole Peruvian Food: With some Afro-European roots on it, “comida criolla” also goes well with inca Kola. You can try a seco de pollo, omo saltado aji de gallina, or even chanfainita and it’ll be even more delicious.
Chifa: The Chinese influence Peru receives it’s tremendous, and that’s why we have the best for the end.“Chifa” it’s a combination of cuisine with Chinese roots, thanks to Chinese immigration to Peru more than 150 years ago.
Chinese people brought their traditions, costumes, and also food techniques. Combined with Peruvian ingredients, that’s how the chifa was born.
Chifa is one of the most consumed meals by Peruvians, no wonder why, along with “pollerias” (pollo a la brasa restaurants) you can find“Chifas” ) Chifa food restaurants) almost on every corner.
Probably, chifa is the best food that goes the best with Inca Kola. Do yourself a favor when you come to Peru. At least once, go to a chifa and order an inca kola too, you’ll thank us.
Inca Kola Values in the current day
In 2015, Arca Continental, a top Latin American bottler joined forces with Lindley’s operations. With a team of 4,600 and a network reaching 340,000 stores, this collaboration has made Inca Kola a favorite across the country.
This partnership opened doors for Inca Kola to reach new markets beyond Peru. Arca Continental has been instrumental in ensuring the quality and availability of this beloved soda, both in Peru and in other countries.
Today, Inca Kola’s vision is described as “the position we aspire for our company to reach, our highest ambition as a business, guiding us toward where we want to go. We have a clear and shared vision of what we aim to become, eliminating confusion and fostering commitment among our people.”
Inca Kola’s mission is to meet consumers on all their beverage occasions. They also aim to create lasting value for their shareholders.
Conclusion
Inca Kola has been a beloved drink for many years, successfully navigating competition from international brands. Its popularity has grown beyond Peru, and now people in several countries can enjoy it. However, the heart and soul of Inca Kola remain rooted in Peru.
This drink has won over fans not just because of its unique taste, but also because it represents Peruvian identity. For many Peruvians, Inca Kola is a source of pride and an important part of their cultural heritage. It is also one of the most representative Peruvian drinks in our vast repertory.
To learn more about culture, traditions, food, and everything related to Peru, keep reading our blog! Viagens Machu Picchu also invites you to discover Peru for yourself. Our more than satisfied 100,000 clients can confirm we do our best to meet our client’s expectations.
Contact our consultants to start planning the trip of your dreams in the land of Inca Kola, Peru. We’re waiting for you with open arms!
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