The Story Behind Lay's: A Snack Icon

Lay's, one of the world's most beloved potato crisp brands, has a fascinating history that dates back to 1932. Founded by Herman Lay in Nashville, Tennessee, the brand began as a modest business selling potato chips from the boot of his car. This small operation quickly grew, and by the mid-20th century, Lay's had established itself as a household name in the snack industry.

The Origins of the Lay's Name

The name "Lay's" comes from its founder, Herman Lay, who not only gave his surname to the brand but also infused his entrepreneurial spirit into the company's identity. Lay's quickly became synonymous with quality and innovation, setting the standard for potato crisps across the United States.

Lay's and Frito-Lay: A Powerful Partnership

In 1961, Lay's merged with The Frito Company to form Frito-Lay, creating one of the largest snack food manufacturers in the world. This pivotal partnership eventually caught the attention of PepsiCo, which acquired Frito-Lay in 1965. Under PepsiCo's ownership, Lay's expanded its reach globally, introducing new flavours and capturing the hearts of snack lovers worldwide.

The Relationship Between Lay's and Walkers Crisps

In the UK, Lay's is marketed under the Walkers brand, which PepsiCo acquired in 1989. The decision to use the Walkers name in Britain was a strategic one, as Walkers already held a strong presence in the local market. Despite the different branding, the two share the same innovative spirit and commitment to quality. Walkers’ crisps are often produced using Lay's global recipes, adapted to suit British tastes, with flavours like Cheese & Onion and Prawn Cocktail becoming iconic.

From Humble Beginnings to Global Dominance

What began as a small business in Tennessee has grown into a global phenomenon, with Lay's crisps enjoyed in over 200 countries. The brand's relationship with Walkers Crisps underscores its ability to adapt and thrive in different markets while maintaining the same high standards that Herman Lay envisioned. Lay's, or Walkers in the UK, remains a testament to the power of quality, innovation, and a strong brand legacy.