By Ian Neubauer
Coca-Cola Amatil (CCA) has purchased the heritage-listed Coke sign in Kings Cross for an undisclosed sum.
Consisting of two panels, one built in 1976 and the second in 1990, the Coke sign sits atop of the Trademark Hotel and its recently launched sister venue, the Piano Bar. Spanning 62 meters across and 13 meters high, the Coke sign is the largest outdoor billboard in the Southern Hemisphere.
“This is a great strategic long-term investment,” said CCA managing director, Terry Davis. “The Coke sign is one of Australia’s most recognisable advertising signs, and has been a part of Sydney life for more than 30 yeas. We are pleased to be able to buy it and secure the position as a landmark icon in Sydney for years to come.”
CCA also refused to disclose the name of the vendor. However, it is believed the sign was owned by HSBC, which reportedly leased it to US-based Coca-Cola Company (TCCC) for $1 million per year.
CCA and TCCC will maintain the current leasing agreement.