Clarification: The headline of this story has been updated to reflect the Peanut Butter Trees are a seasonal release.
Dive Brief:
- Hershey's Reese's released holiday-themed Peanut Butter Trees, which were meant to be Reese's Peanut Butter Cups in the shape of a Christmas tree. However, those shapes have not been received as such, stirring social media criticism.
- The brand is apologizing to those who take issue with the new Peanut Butter Trees, often with mocking comments: "What part of this looks like a Christmas tree?"
- "As one consumer noted, regardless of their shape people will eat them. #ItsStillReeses," CNN reported.
Dive Insight:
Each year, companies introduce new holiday products to capitalize on the spirit of the season and consumers' drive to spend more money at this time. This is particularly key for candy companies, and Reese's has been no stranger to holiday-related candies in the past, such as its Peanut Butter Eggs for Easter and Peanut Butter Pumpkins for Halloween.
But not all products can be a hit, and it looks like Peanut Butter Trees may have missed the mark this year. However, as CNN said, misshapen chocolate isn't necessarily going to stop consumers from eating it.
If anything, the social media attention is heightening awareness of the product's existence to consumers.