Coca-Cola has been running Christmas advertisements since the 1920s, with many even crediting the brand for shaping the modern image of Santa Claus. This transformation is largely attributed to Coca-Cola’s partnership in the 1930s with illustrator Haddon Sundblom.
Sundblom’s depiction of Santa as “a warm, friendly, pleasantly plump, and human figure” forever changed how we envision jolly old Saint Nick. Before Sundblom’s 1931 interpretation, Santa’s image varied widely, from “a tall and gaunt man to an elflike figure draped in bishop’s robes or Norse hunting gear.”
Since then, Coca-Cola’s holiday campaigns, featuring their iconic Santa and glowing delivery trucks, have sparked warm and festive feelings in the hearts of Americans. This year, however, the company took a bold turn by releasing a Christmas advertisement made entirely with artificial intelligence, sparking a lively debate online.
The ad reimagined Coca-Cola’s beloved 1995 Holidays Are Coming campaign, but many viewers were left confused by odd details, such as wheels that seemed to glide unnaturally and distorted backgrounds that didn’t feel cohesive. Critics argued that the ad lacked the nostalgic warmth and festive joy that Coca-Cola’s holiday campaigns are known for, describing it as distant and too futuristic.
Is this the start of AI ruining the holidays? As a technology company, here’s what we think:
AI is not a passing trend—it’s a tool that’s been evolving for decades, finding new and creative applications in every industry. Its role in advertising, including this move by Coca-Cola, reflects the ongoing transformation in how brands engage with audiences.
While AI offers incredible possibilities, it’s essential to balance innovation with authenticity—especially when dealing with beloved traditions like the holidays. Nostalgia and human connection remain powerful elements that technology should enhance, not replace.
Our advice? Continue to adapt and utilize AI where it adds value, but always stay grounded in the heart and soul of your brand. The future is about blending innovation with timeless traditions and combining human ingenuity with AI’s capabilities.
In 2025, be on the lookout for a new AI page on our website where we hope to educate you on what AI is and how you can leverage it to drive business success.