To commemorate America's final shuttle launch on July 8th 2011, Mars Chocolate North America created the official NASA space-themed M & M's. The milk-chocolate treats have been traveling on NASA's spaceships since the first mission in 1981, aboard the Columbia shuttle. Having been a part of space crews' diets for over 130 missions, M & Ms can very well be these individuals' favorite treat. While one side of the commemorative candies still bears the company's trademark logo, the other features one of three designs -- a small space shuttle sketch, "July 8th, 2001," or "3... 2... 1... Lift Off!"
The red, white and blue NASA space-themed M&M's have not been made available to the public, but it seems likely they'll be brought out in the future as a collector's item. The special edition candies are a simple and sweet thank-you to the space program and crew for all they've done in the last few decades.
Intergalactic Commemorative Candies
The NASA Space-Themed M & M's are Out of This World
Trend Themes
1. Space-themed Collectibles - The creation of NASA space-themed M&M's presents an opportunity for businesses to tap into the market of collectible space-themed merchandise.
2. Corporate Sponsorship in Space Exploration - The collaboration between Mars Chocolate North America and NASA highlights the potential for businesses to form partnerships with space exploration agencies and promote their brand through space missions.
3. Nostalgic Branding - The release of commemorative NASA M&M's allows businesses to leverage nostalgic branding strategies, appealing to consumers who have a connection to the history of space exploration.
Industry Implications
1. Confectionery - The confectionery industry can explore the creation of limited edition space-themed candies to attract collectors and space enthusiasts.
2. Space Exploration - The collaboration with Mars Chocolate North America opens up opportunities for the space exploration industry to forge partnerships with private companies for funding and sponsorship.
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