What Are Lays Crisps Called in the UK?
What are Lays crisps called in the UK? In the United Kingdom, Lays crisps are known as **Walkers crisps**, a name beloved by British snackers. Although Lays is a globally recognized brand with an array of flavours and that famously crisp texture, PepsiCo retained the Walkers name when they acquired the brand in 1989, preserving Walkers’ distinct local charm and established reputation among UK consumers. So, while the branding may differ, UK snackers enjoy the same high-quality crisps known as Lays around the world.
The Story Behind Lays and Walkers
Lays began its journey in 1932 in Nashville, Tennessee, created by founder Herman Lay. Through strategic mergers, such as with Frito to form Frito-Lay and later with PepsiCo in 1965, Lays quickly became a leader in global snacks. On the other side of the Atlantic, Walkers, established in Leicester, was creating its own legacy with flavours like Cheese & Onion and Prawn Cocktail. When PepsiCo acquired Walkers in 1989, they chose to keep the Walkers name in the UK, capitalising on its local popularity while introducing Lays flavours under this British label.
Why Lays Is Called Walkers in the UK
By keeping the Walkers name, PepsiCo connected to British consumers’ loyalty to the local brand, blending the global reputation of Lays with Walkers’ established presence. Although Walkers and Lays share popular flavours, the UK line includes unique options that cater to the British palate. This approach allowed PepsiCo to maintain the identity of both brands while ensuring British consumers feel the familiarity of their Walkers favourites.
Regional Variations: Lays Brand Names Around the World
- Walkers – United Kingdom and Ireland
- Smith’s – Australia
- Chipsy – Egypt and the West Balkans
- Sabritas – Mexico
- Margarita – Colombia
While Lays retains its name in North America and parts of Asia, regional adaptations such as Walkers crisps in the UK exemplify PepsiCo’s approach to aligning with local identities. Walkers offers the same crisp quality found in Lays crisps globally, along with flavours that appeal to UK tastes.
Popular Flavours Shared Between Lays and Walkers
Both Lays crisps and Walkers crisps feature iconic flavours like Salt & Vinegar, Sour Cream & Onion, and Barbecue. Walkers, however, also offers British-inspired flavours such as Roast Chicken and Smoky Bacon. This localisation strategy enables British snackers to enjoy the best of Lays under the Walkers name, meeting local preferences while maintaining Lays’ renowned quality.
Final Answer: What Are Lays Crisps Called in the UK?
In summary, for UK snack lovers wondering, “What are Lays crisps called in the UK?” – the answer is Walkers crisps. It’s the same classic crisp quality, just tailored to the British market under the iconic Walkers label.