Consumer groups angry at Coke's Harry Potter deal

Consumer groups are angry Coca-Cola has netted a huge promotional deal with the Harry Potter film.

Coca-Cola has paid Warner Brothers £100 million for the global marketing rights to the first Harry Potter movie and possibly the sequels.

The Centre for Science in the Public Interest says many consumer groups feel the marketing will be too aggressive.

More than 40 organisations have banded together and formed a website to register their protest.

A CSPI spokesman told CBC News: "Coca-Cola is aggressively marketing to children by featuring Harry Potter imagery on packages and in advertising."

The company will be using competitions, games, and a website to promote its drinks alongside the film.

Michael Jacobson, executive director of CSPI, said: "Over-consumption of Coca-Cola and other sugar-laden soft drinks contributes to obesity and diabetes, reduced nutrient intake, and tooth decay."

The company has defended its marketing rights by pointing to its $18 million programme to get children to read.