Kool-Aid, the iconic powdered drink mix, was originally called “Fruit Smack” before it was renamed. The transformation from Fruit Smack to Kool-Aid was driven by consumer preferences and the need for a more convenient and less messy product.
Back in the early 1900s, Fruit Smack was sold in bottles, which proved to be quite messy for consumers. The corked bottles often led to spills and drips, making it less appealing for people to enjoy the fruity beverage. Recognizing the need for a more practical solution, Perkins' company, which later became the Kool-Aid company, came up with an innovative powdered form of the drink.
The transition from Fruit Smack to Kool-Aid was a significant turning point for the brand. By offering a powdered drink mix, Perkins and his team were able to address the messiness issue and provide consumers with a more convenient and appealing option. The powdered form allowed for easy storage and transportation, making it a hit among consumers.
In 1927, Perkins' company introduced the newly renamed Kool-Ade to the market. The name change involved dropping the “c” from “Kool-Ade,” resulting in the iconic name we know today, Kool-Aid. This rebranding effort helped to establish Kool-Aid as a distinct and memorable brand in the beverage industry.
Interestingly, the original production of Kool-Aid took place in a building located on West First Street in Hastings, Nebraska. This humble beginning in a small town marked the start of Kool-Aid's journey to becoming a beloved and popular drink across the United States and beyond.
As a sommelier and brewer, I can appreciate the significance of branding and product development in the beverage industry. The evolution of Kool-Aid from Fruit Smack to Kool-Aid showcases the importance of understanding consumer preferences and adapting to meet their needs. In my own experiences, I have seen how even small changes in packaging or formulation can have a significant impact on a product's success and consumer perception.
The original name of Kool-Aid was Fruit Smack, but the rebranding to Kool-Aid and the introduction of the powdered drink format marked a turning point for the brand, making it a household name and a staple in many households.