ATLANTA, Feb. 16, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Like any true classic, Barq's keeps it fresh while staying true to its roots.

In its first redesign in more than 20 years, Barq's root beer is unveiling a completely new look to pay homage to the brand's Gulf Coast heritage and classically crisp, bold flavor. The new design will be featured on all of Barq's packaging and is currently rolling-out nationwide.

(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20120216/CL54289 )

While the cans will maintain their distinctive silver color, the new look features a diamond pattern reminiscent of the drink's original 1898 12 oz. glass bottle packaging, which is still available in the Gulf Coast area. Additionally, the label helps celebrate the brand's 114-year history by keeping the simple slogan "It's Good. Since 1898." 

"When a beverage as beloved as Barq's undergoes a significant packaging evolution, we have to remain true to the brand's heritage and tradition while ensuring the brand is relevant to today's consumers," said Christina Manganaro, senior marketing activation manager, Coca-Cola North America. "We think the new design presents a cleaner, simpler look that captures the brand's essence in a way that will ultimately resonate with both dedicated Barq's fans and those who are new to the brand."

Barq's traces its heritage back to New Orleans, Louisiana and Biloxi, Mississippi where the beverage was founded and first produced by Biloxi Artesian Bottling Works.  The brand was later purchased by The Coca-Cola Company in 1995.  Since then, the sarsaparilla-based root beer has maintained its trademark bold flavor and caffeine kick reflecting the brand's well-known tagline "Barq's has Bite."

About The Coca-Cola Company
The Coca-Cola Company (NYSE: KO) is the world's largest beverage company, refreshing consumers with more than 500 sparkling and still brands. Led by Coca-Cola, the world's most valuable brand, our Company's portfolio features 15 billion dollar brands including Diet Coke, Fanta, Sprite, Coca-Cola Zero, vitaminwater, Powerade, Minute Maid, Simply, Georgia and Del Valle. Globally, we are the No. 1 provider of sparkling beverages, ready-to-drink coffees, and juices and juice drinks. Through the world's largest beverage distribution system, consumers in more than 200 countries enjoy our beverages at a rate of 1.7 billion servings a day. With an enduring commitment to building sustainable communities, our Company is focused on initiatives that reduce our environmental footprint, support active, healthy living, create a safe, inclusive work environment for our associates, and enhance the economic development of the communities where we operate. Together with our bottling partners, we rank among the world's top 10 private employers with more than 700,000 system employees. For more information, please visit www.thecoca-colacompany.com or follow us on Twitter at twitter.com/CocaColaCo.

SOURCE The Coca-Cola Company