In honor of an old Vine video and the resulting meme that featured a little boy professing his undying love for Chipotle, the Mexican grill chain unveiled its 'OMG, Chipotle is My Life' t-shirt.
To launch the merch, the company teamed up with the boy that was featured in the 2014 video, a now 12-year-old Roy Murray. In addition to the tee that spotlights the meme, the company announced that it would be launching the bowl that led to Murray's reaction, which features "double white rice, black beans, chicken, tomatillo-red salsa, roasted chili-corn salsa, sour cream and cheese."
To thank Murray for being one of its "first viral super fans," Chipotle is gifting him the coveted Chipotle Celebrity Card, which provides him with free food at any of its locations.
Meme-Inspired QSR Merch
Chipotle Created Its 'OMG, Chipotle is My Life' Tee for Meme-Savvy Fans
Trend Themes
1. Meme Merch - QSRs and retailers can capitalize on viral memes and create branded merchandise to appeal to meme-savvy consumers.
2. Collaboration with Viral Sensations - Brands can work with viral sensations to co-create products that tap into their fanbase's passion and loyalty.
3. Limited Edition Menu Items - Restaurants can create limited edition menu items based on fan favorites or internet jokes to drive excitement and sales.
Industry Implications
1. Quick Service Restaurants (qsrs) - Fast food chains can use viral memes and internet culture to create targeted merchandise and food products that appeal to younger consumers.
2. Retailers - Retail brands can tap into the power of viral memes and work with social media influencers to generate buzz and drive sales for their merchandise.
3. Entertainment - TV shows, movies, and other forms of entertainment can create fan merchandise and limited edition products based on fan favorites and internet culture to generate additional revenue streams.