Betty Crocker Taps Into “Wednesday” Mania with New Limited-Edition Line
Minneapolis, MN – July 26, 2024 – General Mills is capitalizing on the immense popularity of the Netflix series wednesday with a new line of limited-edition products under its iconic betty Crocker brand.The launch, announced today, includes a super Moist Dark chocolate Cake Mix, Whipped Cream Frosting, and the return of Blueberry Grape Despair Gushers fruit snacks, all strategically timed to coincide with the premiere of Wednesday Season 2.
The move underscores a growing trend within the consumer packaged goods industry: aligning product releases with major entertainment franchises to drive consumer engagement and sales. Industry analysts at Mintel report a 35% increase in themed food and beverage product launches in the last two years, citing the success of collaborations like this as a key driver.
The Betty Crocker Super Moist Dark Chocolate Cake mix is designed to deliver a rich, decadent flavour profile, appealing to fans of the show’s gothic aesthetic. Paired with the Whipped Cream Frosting, the combination aims to provide a complete baking experience. The reintroduced Blueberry Grape Despair Gushers, originally a limited-edition item in 2023, directly references the show’s darker themes and has proven popular with the 13-24 demographic, according to General Mills internal sales data.
“we’re thrilled to partner with Netflix and bring a taste of Wednesday to our consumers’ kitchens,” said Sarah Johnson, Senior marketing Manager at General Mills. “We saw astonishing demand for the initial Gushers release and believe the cake mix and frosting will be equally well-received by fans eager to immerse themselves further in the world of Nevermore Academy.”
These products will initially be available exclusively on Amazon starting in mid-August 2025, with a broader rollout to major retailers including Walmart, Target, and Kroger planned for early September 2025. This strategic timing directly aligns with the staggered release of Wednesday Season 2, which premieres on Netflix on August 6th and September 3rd, 2025. The staggered release dates are designed to maintain consumer interest and drive repeat purchases.
Looking Ahead: The Rise of Experiential Food Products
The Betty Crocker-Wednesday collaboration is indicative of a broader shift in the food industry towards experiential products. Consumers are increasingly seeking products that offer more than just sustenance; they want to connect with their favorite brands and entertainment properties on a deeper level. This trend is expected to continue, with brands investing in innovative packaging, unique flavors, and immersive marketing campaigns to capture consumer attention. Experts predict that themed food and beverage sales will reach $8.2 billion by 2027, according to a report by Grand View Research.
