Unilever’s Knorr is making waves with a fresh ad campaign, featuring celebrity chef Martha Stewart. This initiative taps into the trend of “dupe culture,” encouraging fans to recreate their favorite fast food items at home. The campaign promotes Knorr’s “Unlimited Time Menu,” where popular fast food dishes, like the McRib, are reimagined using Knorr products.
In a fun 30-second ad, Martha showcases a sandwich that resembles the McRib, but with a twist—it’s made with Knorr ingredients. She introduces an army of “unlimited Marthas,” emphasizing that anyone can create delicious dupes of their fast food favorites.
Dupe culture, often related to fashion, is particularly popular among Gen Z. As fast food prices rise due to economic changes, many are looking for budget-friendly ways to enjoy these treats at home. According to recent surveys, many consumers are eager to recreate limited-time menu items themselves, especially as brands like McDonald’s push fleeting offerings to create excitement.
Knorr’s campaign goes beyond traditional ads. It includes targeted ads on Lyft, strategically reaching users heading to fast food spots. They’re also introducing shoppable recipe videos on Roku, linking to recipes on Walmart’s site. The marketing strategy spans popular social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram, collaborating with influencers to build trust in their recipes.
Interestingly, limited-time offerings are a key tool for fast food brands. For instance, McDonald’s had a “farewell tour” for the McRib in 2022, but fans always hope for its return. Similarly, KFC has recently hyped the Double Down sandwich. The unpredictable nature of these offerings keeps consumers eagerly anticipating their next bite.
Amidst all this, Knorr aims to empower home cooks. Their past campaigns, like “#EffortisEverything” for Thanksgiving, encouraged culinary creativity, promoting the idea that cooking is about fun, not perfection. With Martha Stewart leading the charge, it seems there’s never been a better time to bring fast food favorites into our kitchens.
This mix of creativity and accessibility may just redefine the landscape of home cooking and fast food enjoyment.