The story behind trademarks of potato crisps

Potato crisps, or chips,  as they are called in some parts of the world, are one of the most popular snack foods around. They come in various shapes, sizes, flavours, and brands, and are great to have at any time and anywhere. But have you ever wondered how these brands came up with their trade marks? What do they mean and how do they protect them? Let’s explore the stories behind some of the most famous trademarks of potato chips or crisps.

Pringles

In the 1950s, chip lovers complained that potato chips were too greasy and the bags were full of broken pieces. In 1956, Procter & Gamble aimed to solve this problem and enlisted chemist Fredric J. Baur. He used a geometric formula to create a non-breakable, saddle-shaped chip. The only issue was that they tasted bad, so P&G temporarily abandoned the idea.

In the mid-’60s, they revisited the concept, improved the recipe using dehydrated potatoes, rice, corn, and wheat, and used Baur’s method to shape the chips. Procter & Gamble named their invention Pringles Newfangled Potato Chips, and although the reason for the name remained unknown, it became permanent. One theory suggests the name might be linked to Mark Pringle, cited in a P&G patent, but this hasn’t been verified. Another theory proposes that the chips could be named after two P&G advertising employees residing on Pringle Drive in Ohio, yet the true origin remains uncertain. Despite the uncertainty, Pringles were introduced, but they did not immediately gain widespread popularity. But now, it’s one of the most recognisable potato crisps brands over the world.

The company also registered several other trademarks related to its products, such as “SNACK STACKS,” “POP PLAY EAT,” and “SMART CRISPS.” Pringles obtained federal trademark registration for “SNACK STACKS” on November 5, 2002. The brand uses the trademark for snack foods such as potato chips and crisps.

Lay’s

Another well-known trademark of potato chips is Lay’s. The name Lay’s comes from the founder of the company, Herman Lay, who started selling potato chips in 1932. The company also owns several other trade marks, such as “WAVY,” “STAX,” and “KETTLE COOKED.” Additionally, Lay’s obtained federal trademark registration for “WAVY” on June 18, 1996. The brand uses the trademark for potato chips and related products.

Walkers

Walkers is a British trade mark of potato crisps that was founded in 1948 by Henry Walker. The company is known for its distinctive logo featuring a red sunburst and a yellow oval with the name Walkers. Like other potato chips companies, the company also has several other trademarks, such as “SENSATIONS,” “MAX,” and “QUAVERS.” Walkers obtained federal trademark registration for “SENSATIONS” on October 10, 2000. The brand uses the trademark for potato crisps and related products.

These are just some examples of the trademarks of potato chips / crisps that have interesting stories behind them. Trade marks are important for brands to distinguish themselves from competitors and to create a loyal customer base. They also help to protect the quality and reputation of their products from imitation or infringement. So if you want to start a potato chips company, or any company really, make sure to have a think about trademarks.