Just in time for summer, Carl's Jr. has expanded its milkshake lineup to include the creamy new Popcorn Shake. The only catch is that you'll have to be in New Zealand in order to try it.
Carl's Jr.'s new Popcorn Shake is a limited edition treat currently available from the chain's New Zealand locations—though it was available in Australia last year. The drink blends rich vanilla ice cream with milk and a sweet popcorn-flavored syrup to create what is essentially drinkable popcorn. Apparently the new flavor came about after Carl's Jr. gave customers a choice of four possible flavors: S'mores, Cookie Dough, Popcorn, and Jelly Tip (an ice cream bar). Popcorn appears to have won the vote, giving customers a delicious new way to enjoy a classic movie theater snack.
Popcorn-Flavored Milkshakes
Carl's Jr. is Serving Up the New Popcorn Shake Over in New Zealand
Trend Themes
1. Savory Milkshakes - The rise of new, innovative milkshake flavors with savory ingredients presents an opportunity for restaurants and cafes to attract customers with unique taste experiences.
2. Limited Edition Treats - Creating limited edition menu items can drive customer excitement and demand, with Carl's Jr. Popcorn Shake serving as another example of this strategy.
3. Crowdsourced Menu Items - Involving customers in the product development process, as Carl's Jr. did with the flavor vote for their new milkshake, can increase brand loyalty and engagement.
Industry Implications
1. Fast Food - Fast food chains like Carl's Jr. are always looking for new ways to drive foot traffic and sales, and seasonal or limited edition menu items can provide a short-term boost in revenue.
2. Beverages - As the trend toward unique, hybrid drink experiences continues, there is potential for beverage companies to explore new flavor combinations and ingredient innovations to create original products.
3. Snack Foods - Carl's Jr.'s Popcorn Shake is just one example of how snack food brands can expand their offerings into different product categories or collaborate with other brands to create unique new flavors.