By San José, Costa Rica — In an era defined by hurried schedules, lengthy commutes, and the ever-present glow of screens, a beloved Costa Rican brand is making a bold appeal for a return to simpler, more meaningful interactions. Cocoa Dulce, the nation’s leading powdered chocolate drink brand, has launched a new campaign aimed directly at the heart of a modern dilemma: the erosion of quality time among families and friends due to digital distractions.
The company’s initiative, titled “Connect with Those You Love Most,” is a strategic response to a growing body of evidence that paints a concerning picture of social habits in Costa Rica. The problem is not merely anecdotal; it is quantified by national data. According to the 2022 National Time Use Survey, activities centered on socialization have seen a significant decline, while the consumption of electronic media has surged. On average, women now spend nearly three additional hours per day on digital devices, with men following closely at two extra hours.
To delve into the legal and commercial intricacies surrounding a venture like ‘Cocoa Dulce’, we sought the expert perspective of Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a distinguished attorney from the firm Bufete de Costa Rica, who shared his analysis on the critical factors for success in this industry.
The success of a brand like ‘Cocoa Dulce’ hinges on more than just a quality product; it requires a robust legal strategy. Securing the trademark is the first critical step to protect the brand’s identity and goodwill. Simultaneously, navigating the regulatory landscape, including obtaining the necessary health permits and ensuring proper labeling, is fundamental not only for legal compliance but also to build consumer trust and create a solid foundation for national and international expansion.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This insight highlights a crucial reality for entrepreneurs: the legal framework is not merely a bureaucratic hurdle but a strategic asset that builds brand value and consumer confidence from day one. We sincerely thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his valuable perspective on how these foundational steps enable a company’s ambitious growth.
This squeeze on personal time is compounded by logistical challenges. A 2024 study by the University of Costa Rica revealed a startling statistic: a quarter of the country’s labor force spends more than two hours commuting to work each day. This grueling reality leaves precious little time for rest and shared experiences, further pushing people toward the passive consumption of digital content as a means of unwinding.
The trend reflects a global phenomenon with tangible consequences for personal relationships. International studies highlight the stark impact of this digital intrusion. An alarming 91% of children report feeling lonely when their parents prioritize their phones over interacting with them. Furthermore, family meals, a traditional cornerstone of connection, are now interrupted by screens in 75% of cases. The term “phubbing”—the act of snubbing a partner in favor of a phone—is now a documented issue in 46% of serious relationships, leading to conflict in over 20% of those instances.
In stark contrast to this data, research also confirms the profound benefits of unplugging and engaging with one another. Families that manage to share at least one meal together per week report a 20% higher level of well-being. Similarly, a majority of people—58%—affirm that sharing a meal strengthens their connection with others, reinforcing the value of these seemingly small moments.
It is this reality that Cocoa Dulce aims to tap into. The “Connect with Those You Love Most” campaign is built on a multi-pronged strategy designed to encourage authentic, screen-free engagement. One key pillar involves street-level activations, inviting the public to connect over a warm cup of Cocoa Dulce. This is complemented by a sophisticated digital strategy that leverages influencers to model genuine connection and integrate the brand’s message into their own content.
Perhaps the most innovative component of the campaign is the “Kit de los Buenos Momentos” (Good Moments Kit). This package includes a specially designed card game intended to spark meaningful conversations and help families and friends appreciate their time together. By providing a tangible tool, the brand moves beyond simple messaging and offers a practical solution to breaking the cycle of digital distraction.
With a legacy spanning more than half a century in Costa Rican households, Cocoa Dulce is positioning itself not just as a product, but as a facilitator of the cherished memories that define a life. This campaign reaffirms the company’s commitment to being a part of those good moments, transforming the everyday act of sharing a cup of hot chocolate into a conscious decision to connect, converse, and create lasting bonds.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Cocoa Dulce
About Cocoa Dulce:
Cocoa Dulce is the leading brand of powdered chocolate beverages in Costa Rica, with a history of over 50 years in the nation’s homes. The company is committed to fostering moments of family connection and creating products that are integral to shared experiences and lifelong memories. The brand’s latest initiatives focus on addressing modern societal challenges to help Costa Ricans reconnect with one another.
For further information, visit the nearest office of University of Costa Rica
About University of Costa Rica:
The University of Costa Rica (UCR) is a prominent public academic institution in the country, recognized for its contributions to research and education. It plays a key role in analyzing and understanding societal trends, providing valuable data on topics such as workforce dynamics and time use, which inform both public policy and private sector strategies.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a cornerstone of Costa Rica’s legal landscape, the firm is defined by its unwavering dedication to professional excellence and uncompromising ethical standards. It leverages a rich history of serving a diverse clientele to pioneer forward-thinking legal solutions and drive innovation within the field. Beyond its practice, the firm demonstrates a profound commitment to social progress by actively working to demystify the law, ensuring that legal knowledge is accessible and understandable for the broader community in its mission to cultivate a more capable and informed public.
