Millennials have much more spending power than any previous generation, and the change in their spending habits has led to the coming and going of many brands. From Diet Pepsi, Apple iPod, to Tiffany, here are 20 of your favorite brands that may be gone before you realize it.
1. Campbell’s Soup
Campbell’s Soup once dominated the kitchen, but now, it’s more likely to be seen on a graphic T-shirt than on the dinner table. Young customers lost interest in the brand mainly because of its high amounts of sodium. The company is now focusing on organic products, but they aren’t selling that well, either.
2. Diet Pepsi
Diet Pepsi came onto the market as a response to worries about sugary sodas and went on to become super popular in the ’90s. In recent years, their sales, unfortunately, have fallen drastically because of concerns about the potential harm of artificial sweeteners. Now, the youth prefer healthier drinks such as sparkling water.
3. Apple iPod
The iPod became a sensation when it hit the market in 2001, and 100 million iPods were sold by 2007. Apple described its arrival as “the unveiling of a breakthrough digital device.” In recent years, however, the portable music player has been replaced by the multi-functional iPhone. Now, only one iPod model is still in production: the Touch.
4. Budweiser
Once the “King of Beers,” Budweiser fell to No. 4 in America’s domestic beer sales in 2018. Today’s consumers prefer new and more exciting alcoholic beverages, and many craft beer brands have exploded to meet demand. There are also other competitors, such as hard seltzers, low-sugar, low-carb alcoholic drinks, and unique flavor blends.
5. Kellogg’s Cereals
While Eggo waffles are enjoying a revival thanks to Stranger Things, Kellogg’s other breakfast lineup is sliding year over year. Americans have lost interest in the super-sweet cereals of their childhood and are turning to on-the-go foods for their commute.
6. Crocs
The comfy foam footwear has great popularity among moms, campers, and gardeners, but they are still struggling. Why? First, crocs are so durable that they almost never need replacing. Second, some customers worry that wearing these shoes is harmful to their feet.
7. Victoria’s Secret
Best known for its fashion shows and skimpy styles, Victoria’s Secret is a little ragged in recent years. Analysts think that the brand’s in-your-face sexuality, glam image, and reliance on skinny models no longer caters to today’s consumers. Their sales have been decreasing year-over-year since 2016, and 250 stores were closed by 2020.
8. Kodak
Known for its cameras and film, Kodak was once a cutting-edge company with around 145,000 employees. But with the blooming of smartphones and Instagram, “Kodak moments” had slipped away, and the company declared bankruptcy in 2012. Kodak is now desperately dabbling in cryptocurrency with “Kodakcoin,” but it seems a real challenge to bounce back.
9. Jell-O
An iconic childhood snack, Jell-O always reminds us of cafeteria food and molded dessert rings. You may see it on your grandma’s holiday buffet but will be surprised to see it in supermarkets. The company has had troubles catering to today’s food trends of health and convenience, though it’s trying to win over the youth by adding new products.
10. Harley Davidson
Even Harley Davidson motorcycles aren’t immune to millennials’ changing spending and transportation habits. As today’s young consumers tend to use ride-hailing apps and public transportation, these motorcycles are becoming a luxury item of the past.
