Bars host ‘Diet Coke parties’ as Iran war sparks shortage
Bars and restaurants in India are hosting 'Diet Coke parties' amid a shortage of the soda caused by supply chain disruptions linked to the Iran war. Attendees pay up to $16 for entry to events featuring Coke-themed cocktails, raffles, and themed activities. The shortage is particularly acute in India because Diet Coke is sold exclusively in cans, which are affected by blockades in the Strait of Hormuz.
- ▪Diet Coke is sold only in cans in India, making it vulnerable to supply chain disruptions.
- ▪The shortage is tied to the US war in Iran and the resulting blockade in the Strait of Hormuz.
- ▪Events feature 'Coke-tails,' raffles for cans, and themed experiences, with some ticket prices doubling due to demand.
- ▪Coca-Cola has reached out to event organizers to explore hosting more Diet Coke parties.
- ▪Diet Coke is popular in India as a mixer with rum and among health-conscious consumers.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
World News Bars host ‘Diet Coke parties’ as Iran war sparks shortage By Patrick Reilly Published May 5, 2026, 1:26 p.m. ET A new trend of “Diet Coke parties” has exploded across bars and restaurants in India, fueled by a shortage of the popular soda due to the Iran war. Coke connoisseurs are shelling out up to $16 for tickets to Diet Coke-themed events, where attendees can sip on “Coke-tails” and even enter raffles to win some of the bubbly beverage to take home. However, Diet Coke fans worldwide shouldn’t be soda-pressed. Unlike most other markets, Diet Coke is sold exclusively in cans in India, making it particularly vulnerable to supply chain disruptions caused by the blockade in the Strait of Hormuz.
…
Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at New York Post.
Discussion
0 commentsMore from New York Post
