The author discusses Lay's potato chips and how the brand has become a "kaleidoscope of taste perversions" with weird flavors such as cappuccino forest, coffee-flavored potatoes, and milk chocolate with tea and lemon. They also mention a promotion where people could vote for a national taste in Russia, with options such as homemade lecho and potatoes with butter and dill. The author criticizes Lay's marketing strategy, saying that they have become too focused on associating their chips with beer and using annoying advertising tactics. They also mention that the brand has become too reliant on fake, over-the-top advertising and has lost touch with reality.
Here are the key facts extracted from the text:
1. Lay's chips were originally known as "Lace" and were created by Herman Lay in 1932.
2. The name "Lace" came from the fact that the packaging was mostly filled with air.
3. In 2017, Lay's had a promotion in Russia where people could vote for their favorite flavor.
4. The options for the promotion were "homemade lecho" and "potatoes with butter and dill".
5. "Potatoes with butter and dill" won the promotion.
6. Lay's has used various marketing tactics, including partnering with football players like Messi and Arshavin.
7. Lay's has also partnered with popular video bloggers for advertising campaigns.
8. The company has used a variety of flavors, including some unusual ones like cappuccino and kiwi.
9. Lay's has a strong presence in Russia and has used targeted advertising campaigns in the country.
10. The company has used a variety of packaging designs, including some that feature smiling faces or fingers.
11. Lay's has faced criticism for some of its marketing tactics, including accusations of being sexist and promoting unhealthy eating habits.