When you open a snack bag, what do you see? While everyone knows that Cheetle hands are a given after eating that iconic snack food, there is more than just mindless eating. Visually compelling food is a huge trend. This summer, Cheetos wants people to peer into that snack bag and gaze on the possibilities. It is time for the Cheetos Shape Hunt.
Cheetos fans are a loyal group. Chester Cheetah and his mischievous ways have conjured curious campaigns over the years. From museum pieces made from Cheetos dust to celebrity chef collaborations at pop-up restaurants, the popular Frito-Lay snack brand proves its influence beyond the snack shelf.
While all of those moments are memorable, it is often the simple, sometimes curious snacking finds that get even more attention. In a world where visually impressive food makes people crave a bite, seeing a shape in the beloved orange, cheesy, crunchy snack makes it even more enjoyable.
Seeing an image in a snack food sparks conversation. Over the years, people have seen famous faces, religious figures, and more. While some people happily look, laugh, and eat. Others preserve that bite to share the experience with the world.
Some people might recall that a “Cheetozard” (which reminded people of Pokemon’s Charizard) sold for $90,000. There have been other Cheetos examples, including a Michael Jordan “Jumpman.” Cheetos has even used this type of “images” concept in previous campaigns.
This summer, Cheetos is asking snackers to go on a Cheetos Shape Hunt. While no one is suggesting that there is a covert op, it is a quest to go beyond just blind eating. It is time to peer into the bag and let people’s imagination escape.
The special contest invites snackers to search for, and potentially find, the Cheetos Shape of the Week. Yes, there is a $10,000 prize on the line for potential winners. Whether or not people can find that shape that fits a particular theme or their submission is just wishful thinking, the concept sparks engagement. The true purpose of this contest is creating conversation beyond the snack bag.
With the first theme, beach, there are plenty of examples for this shape hunt. From umbrellas to beach balls, the simple ideas will be many.
Since each week’s theme will be different, there are plenty of ways for people to let their imagination go into overdrive. Cheetos wants people to engage with the food and each other. In a world where people blindly scroll, mindlessly eat, or otherwise stumble through the day, a push to look, wonder, or even dream is important. Yes, a simple snack can get people to step outside of their boring box.
Who will have the best Cheetos “find” in this summer’s hunt? Maybe a few of those food finds will live on in snack history.