Relaunching MILCA, a Soda Pop Icon

After more than two decades of absence in its origin market, Milca decided to return to Nicaragua and expand through Central America. In partnership with Pupila, we developed a relaunch and positioning campaign that captured the hearts of centennials and millennials through nostalgia marketing insights and popping modern retro visuals.

We anticipated Milca to be received as a new product by most ‘youngsters’, which make up for most of Nicaragua’s population. However, we also expected stories and anecdotes to be told by ‘oldies’ who had enjoyed it back in the day. They organically backed up Milca’s positioning as the original red soda, which we seized through the hashtag #larojaoriginal.

The duality of being a legacy brand, but also new to most of the market, gave us a paradox that sparkED curiosity: ‘New since 1959’. 

Beyond being a delicious thirst-quencher, Milca became a proven conversation starter.

MAKING A (RED) SPLASH!​

Together with Pupila, we challenged the usually overloaded graphics used in the soft-drinks category. In turn, we proposed clean and flat-colored visuals to build an eye-catching grid system that flexibly featured slogans, retail information, and product images. 

Product shots were produced by Madre with the help of business photographer Otto Mejía. We also developed scripts for radio spots and created a new version of Milca’s vintage jingle produced by the talented team at Mosaico Audiovisual.

Furthermore, through Boxed Nicaragua, we put together a special gift-kit aimed at influencers who excitedly shared their unboxing experience and joy at receiving some Milca love.

“Working with Madre Consulting has been a great pleasure. From beginning to end, the team went above and beyond to make sure the strategy we envisioned was executed to perfection. I would definitely recommend any brand or company to sit down with the team at Madre and get to work.”

Javier Cuadra,
President of Milca Bottling Co. & Great Grandson of Don Manuel Ignacio Lacayo.

Carlos Zúñiga, co-founder and creative director of Madre, brings over two decades of experience nurturing brands and big ideas. 

As a visionary leader, Carlos collaborates closely with C-level executives and marketing teams to craft compelling brand strategies that resonate globally. His expertise has helped numerous brands break into new markets, stay relevant, and sustain growth across over 55 countries.

Beyond his professional endeavors, Carlos is passionate about fostering creativity and community. He founded Chispafest, a platform empowering the creative community in Nicaragua and Latin America through workshops and talks.

Based in London, Carlos embraces adventure, from training for marathons to anticipating the joys of fatherhood. His dedication to his work, community, and personal growth is inspiring. Carlos holds a Master’s in Strategic and Creative Direction from IED Barcelona, further enriching his ability to drive innovative solutions for Madre’s clients.