Allen's unveils new names for controversial lollies
Allen’s have announced the new names for two of their most popular lollies after the brand vowed to change their controversial names earlier this year.
Nestlé announced it would be rebranding Allen’s Red Skins and Chicos lollies earlier this year, though at the time, was still deciding on new names.
In a statement on Monday, Nestlé confirmed Red Skins would be renamed “Red Ripper” and Chicos “Cheekies”, with the changes expected to be reflected on packaging in stores next year.
“Nestle has an unwavering commitment to upholding respect for our friends, neighbours and colleagues,” Nestlé General Manager Confectionery, Chris O’Donnell, said in a statement.
“We hope Australians will support the evolution of these two much-loved lollies – while the names are new, the lollies themselves remain unchanged.
“We will keep pack changes simple to help lolly lovers find their favourites easily.”
Allen’s started in Melbourne in 1891 before being bought by UK-based Rothmans holdings in 1985 and then later sold to Nestlé.
Nestlé announced the rebranding amid the Black Lives Matter protests earlier this year, after George Floyd was killed when a police officer kneeled on his neck for nearly nine minutes.
Floyd’s death sparked protests around the world and a broader conversation about racism, with several brands announcing they would be renaming products with controversial names.
Red Skin has long been a slang and offensive term for Native Americans in the US and First Nations people in Canada.
Chico is an offensive term for people of Latin-American descent.
People react to the new names
When Allen’s shared the new names to social media, many people embraced the changes.
“Excellent! Love the new name,” one person said on the post relating to Red Ripper.
“It's never too late to respect another's culture. When you know better, you should do better.”
“Fantastic name change. Great respect shown,” another person said.
One person did point out however Red Ripper may also cause offence, as it was the nickname of a serial killer who murdered over 50 people in the Soviet Union.
According to Biography.com, Andrei Chikatilo confessed to 56 horrific murders and was given multiple nicknames, including ‘The Butcher of Rostov’, ‘The Rostov Ripper’ and ‘The Red Ripper’.
Some did condemn Allen’s for “bowing to political correctness” while a few said they would boycott in light of the new changes.
Another person said the new names were “ridiculous” and claimed there should have been a competition to pick the new name.
Despite the criticism by some, one person pointed out the lollies will be the same, regardless of what they are called.
“Seriously why is the name change such a big deal?” someone questioned on Facebook.
“It’s a respectful and responsible choice by Allen’s ... It’s also great marketing ... They will still be the same.”
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