Golden Wonder Crisps are a well-known developer of crisps in the United Kingdom and these crisps have been a popular snack since their introduction in the 1940s. They come in a variety of flavours, including classic salted, cheese and onion, salt and vinegar, smoky bacon, prawn co*cktail, and more. In this article, we will explore the history, flavours, and popularity of Golden Wonder crisps.
History of Golden Wonder Crisps
Golden Wonder crisps were first introduced in 1947 by the Golden Wonder Potato Products Company. The company was founded in Edinburgh by a businessman named William Alexander, who had the idea of creating crisps from potatoes grown in Scotland. At the time, most crisps were made from imported potatoes, so this was a novel idea.
The company’s first factory was located in Edinburgh. This is where they produced their first batch of crisps. The crisps were sold in brown paper bags and were an instant hit with consumers and the company quickly grew. So, by the 1950s, Golden Wonder crisps were being sold across the United Kingdom.
In the 1960s, they became the first company to introduce flavoured crisps. Cheese and onion was the first flavour to be introduced, followed by salt and vinegar, smoky bacon, and others. These new flavours were a hit with consumers and helped to solidify Golden Wonder’s position as one of the leading crisp brands in the UK.
In the 1970s, they launched the iconic “Penny Packs” of crisps. These small packets of crisps were sold for just one penny and were hugely popular with children. The penny packs helped to make these a household name and helped to cement their place in British culture.
Flavours of Golden Wonder Crisps
Golden Wonder crisps come in a variety of flavours, ranging from classic salted to more adventurous flavours such as prawn co*cktail. Here are some of the most popular flavours of Golden Wonder crisps:
- Salted: The classic salted flavour is one of the most popular varieties of Golden Wonder crisps. These crisps are lightly salted and have a crunchy texture.
- Cheese and Onion: This variety was the first flavoured crisp to be introduced by Golden Wonder. Cheese and onion crisps have a strong cheese flavour with a hint of onion.
- Salt and Vinegar: Salt and vinegar crisps have a tangy taste that is loved by many. These crisps are popular as a snack or as an accompaniment to a sandwich.
- Smoky Bacon: Smoky bacon crisps have a rich and savoury flavour that is popular with meat lovers. These crisps have a smoky taste that is reminiscent of bacon.
- Prawn co*cktail: Prawn co*cktail crisps have a tangy and slightly sweet flavour that is reminiscent of seafood. These crisps are a unique taste that is popular with many.
Shapes of Golden Wonder Crisps
They produce a range of crisp shapes, each designed to deliver a different texture and eating experience. Here are some of the most common shapes of Golden Wonder crisps:
- Straight Cut – Straight-cut crisps are the most common shape of crisps and are available in a variety of flavours. These crisps are sliced straight and have a consistent thickness and texture. They are ideal for dipping or enjoying on their own.
- Balls – The ball puff crisps are light and puffed up with air, which provides a light, dissolving texture. They are available in their classic tangy tom flavour.
- Mini People – These are believe it or not people shaped crisps. they have a unique star-like shape to replicate the arms, legs and head of a person. They are less puffier than the balls but lighter than the straight-cut chips. A classic example of this is the BBQ strikers.
- Cars – Tranform-a-snack does what they say on the packet. They are pieces of a car (chassis and wheels) that you can build together to make fun vehicles. These have lots of different types including beef, spicy cheese and onion.
- Potato Rings – Also known as Ringo’s are ring-shaped crisps that are made from real potatoes. They have a light, crispy texture and are available in a variety of flavours such as salt and vinegar to Thai sweet chilli.
- Wheel Shapes – Also known as ‘Bikers’ crisps have a unique, spindle shape and crunchy texture for that perfect fun, delicious experience. Currently, the only flavour is ‘Spicy’.
- Lattice Crisps – These crisps are puffed-up lattices which have a crunchy lattice-type shell which is puffed up creating a hollow centre with still a crunchy exterior. Varieties include BBQ and Sour Cream and Onion
There’s Something For Everyone
The range of crisp shapes ensures that there is a texture and shape to suit every taste and occasion. Whether you prefer a straight cut or a wavy cut, there Golden Wonder crisps for you.
The Popularity of Golden Wonder Crisps
Golden Wonder crisps have been a popular snack in the UK for over 70 years. Therefore, the brand has a loyal following of fans who love the brand’s unique flavours and crunchy texture. They are widely available in supermarkets, convenience stores, and vending machines across the UK.
However, in recent years, Golden Wonder crisps have faced increased competition from other crisp brands, such as Walkers and Pringles. However, the brand has managed to maintain its position as one of the leading crisp brands in the UK.
Golden Wonder has also been involved in several high-profile marketing campaigns over the years. One of the most famous campaigns was the “Have You Got a Golden Wonder on You?” campaign in the 1970s. This campaign featured a catchy jingle and helped to make Golden Wonder crisps a household name.
But… Where Are They Now?
Golden Wonder Crisps has changed hands several times over the years, and it is currently owned by Tayto Group, a leading UK snack manufacturer. Tayto Group acquired them in 2006, following the brand’s acquisition by the private equity firm Bridgepoint Capital in 2002.
Tayto Group is a family-owned business that was founded in 1956 by Joe Murphy in County Armagh, Northern Ireland. The company produces a range of snack products, including crisps, popcorn, and nuts, and has a portfolio of well-known brands, including Tayto, Real, and Mr. Porky.
Golden Wonder Crisps is one of Tayto Group’s most iconic brands, and the company has continued to invest in the brand and expand its product range since its acquisition. Today, Golden Wonder produces a range of crisp flavours and shapes and remains a popular snack brand in the UK.
