Exciting news is bubbling up in the world of soft drinks— Coca-Cola has officially announced the relaunch of Barrilitos, the iconic Mexican soda beloved by generations. After a long hiatus, this cherished brand is making a triumphant return to the shelves.
Originally introduced in 1938, Barrilitos holds a special place in the hearts of its fans, evoking nostalgia and joy with every fizzy pop of its bottle cap. Coca-Cola, which acquired the brand in 2008 and later discontinued it, is bringing it back with a fresh new look to appeal to Gen Z and millennial consumers who love a mix of nostalgia and cultural heritage in their beverages.
And for those worried about changes—don’t worry, Barrilitos will still be made with 100% cane sugar from Mexico. While the bottle design may be updated, the classic flavors you love are here to stay.
“Barrilitos is evolving to meet the needs of a new generation without losing sight of its rich history," said Maria Correa, a Barrilitos representative. "This relaunch is an invitation to experience Barrilitos and celebrate its heritage in a whole new way while preserving the flavors and traditions that have made it a beloved part of Latino households.”
For now, Barrilitos is available exclusively in Texas and California, so fans outside these states may have to wait— or start rallying demand to bring it to their local stores. According to Coca-Cola, focus groups were key in the decision to relaunch the brand, proving that customer demand has the power to bring back beloved products.
Currently, you can enjoy four classic flavors: Mandarin, Apple, Pineapple, Fruit Punch
Coca-Cola has a history of acquiring and discontinuing brands to focus on other priorities. For instance, Honest Tea, a lightly sweetened tea brand, was discontinued in 2022 after being acquired in 2011. The decision left fans—and even its founder—shocked. However, Coca-Cola’s move to revive Barrilitos shows that they’re listening to their audience and valuing the cultural significance of the brands they own.
If you’re in Texas or California, now’s the time to reconnect with this beloved soda. Crack open a cold Barrilitos and take a flavorful trip down memory lane. And who knows? With enough love and demand, this soda might soon make its way to stores across the country.