“From Disasters to Duds: The Failed Products That Tanked Giants’ Fortunes”
Cosmo Yogurts were designed to integrate Cosmopolitan into the health industry. The company also promoted “lifestyle centers,” where women could receive health advice. But the yogurts only remained on the shelves for 18 months before they were discontinued due to low sales.
Balenciaga’s “Homage” To IKEA
In 2017, IKEA entered high fashion. The company Balenciaga created an homage to IKEA’s blue FRAKTA bags. The problem? Balenciaga’s bag cost $2,145, while IKEA’s version only cost $0.99.
IKEA took advantage of Balenciaga’s failed marketing attempt. They advertised the “original” as cheaper, foldable, and able to be washed–all of which the calfskin knock-off couldn’t do. Customers questioned why they would spend thousands on a bag that they could buy for one dollar. Balenciaga’s bag did not sell well.
The Infamous Unicorn Frappuccino
In 2017, Starbucks had only just realized that customers were posting their drinks on Instagram. They designed a beverage that would blow up on social media called the Unicorn Frappuccino. Great idea, terrible execution.
The Unicorn Frappuccino included sweet pink powder, sour blue powder, color-changing dyes, and mango syrup. If it sounds awful, that’s because it was. It tasted bad, and employees struggled with powder all over their hair. The Unicorn Frappuccino never came back.
Post Comment