Food and fashion are a dynamic duo, especially when it comes to promo. From the drive-thru to the runway, consumers are hungry for out-of-the-box products.
In early October, McDonald’s released its limited-edition “adult Happy Meal” in collaboration with exclusive streetwear brand Cactus Plant Flea Market. Along with your choice of a Big Mac or 10-piece McNuggets, each meal comes with one of four collectible figurines. There’s the classic McDonald’s characters Grimace, the Hamburglar and Birdie, plus Cactus Plant’s own smiley-faced Cactus Buddy.
According to GQ, the meal costs about $2.40 more than the same meal without the toy. The Cactus Plant Flea Market Box was supposed to run through October 30, but the meal sold out in weeks. Now, resellers are hawking the unique toys for thousands of dollars online.
One seller on eBay listed three unopened toys for a jaw-dropping six-figure price, according to CNBC. Another eBay listing sold 150 sealed toys for $2,400.
Pairing posh fashion brands with affordable food is just one example of how brands are using promo to connect with fans and consumers.
During a recent fashion show, luxury fashion house Balenciaga debuted a collaboration with the Frito-Lay brand Lay’s. At the Summer 2023 “The Mud Show” presentation, the Lay’s x Balenciaga Potato Chip Bag Clutch strutted down the runway. While the classic bag of chips costs about $4, the leather clutch is anticipated to be sold for $1,800.
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These zippered bags look almost exactly like the real deal. With a shiny, crinkly feel, the chip clutch is expected to go on sale next summer. According to Today, in a statement, the company explains Balenciaga Creative Director Demna’s idea behind the collab. “Demna loves chips in general, and has carried a bag of Lay’s potato chips as an accessory before,” and he is also interested in “transforming everyday objects into elevated material innovations.”
Food and fashion: a dynamic promo duo, indeed.
