Introduction
Why did they change Eskimo Pie? In 1921, Christian Kent Nelson introduced the world to Eskimo Pie, a delicious ice cream treat. For nearly a century, it delighted ice cream lovers with its rich chocolate coating and creamy vanilla center. However, the brand’s name recently changed to Edy’s Pie, raising questions and sparking debates among consumers.
The term “Eskimo” is now widely considered offensive, particularly to Inuit and Yupik communities. As social awareness grows, many brands face pressure to adapt and reflect changing cultural values. Today, brands like Eskimo Pie must ensure their names and images respect diverse identities.
In this article, we will explore the history of Eskimo Pie, the reasons behind its name change, and the broader movement towards cultural sensitivity in branding.
Historical Context of Eskimo Pie
History of the Name
The term “Eskimo” comes from Algonquin languages, used to describe the native peoples of the Arctic, including the Inuit and Yupik communities. Over time, many people found the term offensive, as it misrepresented the identity of these native groups. The people it referred to did not choose it, which made it even more problematic.
Eskimo Pie carried this name for almost 100 years, becoming an iconic part of American culture. Yet, as societal views shifted, the brand faced growing criticism. Many began to question whether the name still fit in a world becoming more aware of cultural sensitivity. The need to answer why they changed Eskimo Pie became urgent as these conversations gained momentum.
Cultural Relevance
Eskimo Pie represented more than just an ice cream bar. It held cultural significance, especially in the way it portrayed Inuit people. In the 1920s, companies regularly used native imagery in branding, often without concern for the cultural impact. However, as the public grew more aware of these issues, pressure mounted for brands like Eskimo Pie to reconsider their imagery and names.
Brand names are powerful. They influence how people perceive different communities. When a brand continues using outdated or harmful names, it can perpetuate stereotypes. Eskimo Pie eventually became an example of how brands must evolve to respect and reflect current social values. This change is essential in a world that increasingly prioritizes inclusion and respect.
Why Did They Change the Name?
Racial Sensitivity and Social Justice Movements
The decision to change the name Eskimo Pie closely aligns with the broader social justice movements, especially after the Black Lives Matter protests in 2020. Following George Floyd’s tragic death, many companies re-examined their branding to ensure they weren’t perpetuating harm. Public pressure became a key factor in these decisions, as consumers demanded more from brands. The question, “Why did they change Eskimo Pie?”, finds its answer in the growing call for brands to reflect cultural awareness and social responsibility.
Derogatory Nature of the Term “Eskimo”
Many Inuit and Yupik individuals consider the term “Eskimo” derogatory. They prefer to be called “Inuit,” which means “the people” in their native language. Native groups have long advocated for changes to names that misrepresent or disrespect their cultures. Their voices eventually led to the change from Eskimo Pie to Edy’s Pie. This shift underscores the importance of respecting cultural identities and rejecting terms that perpetuate outdated stereotypes.
The Rebranding Process for Eskimo Pie
Timeline of the Decision to Change Eskimo Pie
The decision to rebrand Eskimo Pie officially started in June 2020, when Dreyer’s Grand Ice Cream announced plans to change the name. This move followed public pressure and the global social justice movements that urged companies to reflect on their cultural impact. The company paused production of Eskimo Pie while they decided on the best new name.
The timing of the name change reflects Dreyer’s commitment to keeping up with evolving social values. As many companies were addressing their racial justice impacts, Dreyer’s acted quickly to change Eskimo Pie, recognizing the offense caused by its original name.
Choosing the New Name: Why Eskimo Pie Became Edy’s Pie
After announcing the intention to change Eskimo Pie’s name, Dreyer’s chose “Edy’s Pie” to honor Joseph Edy, the brand’s co-founder. This new name allowed the company to keep a connection to its roots while distancing itself from the outdated and offensive term.
Dreyer’s included input from employees, consumers, and stakeholders to ensure the new name resonated with customers and aligned with contemporary values. The rebranding process for Eskimo Pie, which became Edy’s Pie, involved thoughtful planning and consideration to satisfy both legacy and modern sensibilities.
Other Brands Facing Similar Challenges
Aunt Jemima and Uncle Ben’s: Rebranding for Cultural Sensitivity
Eskimo Pie wasn’t the only brand to face criticism for using racially insensitive names. Other iconic brands like Aunt Jemima and Uncle Ben’s faced similar challenges. Both were criticized for having names and logos that many saw as outdated and offensive.
In June 2020, Quaker Oats announced the rebranding of Aunt Jemima. The brand’s logo featured a stereotypical image of an African American woman, which reinforced harmful racial narratives. To address this, the company changed the name to Pearl Milling Company, which references the original flour mill.
Uncle Ben’s, a well-known rice brand, also made changes. The brand faced criticism for using an African American man as its symbol, which played into racial stereotypes. In response, the brand was rebranded as Ben’s Original. These name changes, like Eskimo Pie’s rebrand to Edy’s Pie, show how companies are adapting to new cultural expectations.
Public Reaction to the Eskimo Pie Name Change and Other Rebrands
Public reaction to the Eskimo Pie name change was mixed, as expected with popular brands. Some consumers welcomed the change. They viewed it as a step toward greater respect for cultural identities. For these individuals, moving away from offensive names was important.
However, not everyone agreed. Some customers felt nostalgic about Eskimo Pie and other brands, like Aunt Jemima. They questioned whether such changes were necessary, labeling them as overly politically correct. Despite this, companies moved forward, stressing the need for inclusivity and respect for all cultures.
Sales were affected by these rebrands too. While some feared losing loyal customers, the opposite occurred in many cases. Brands like Edy’s Pie attracted new customers who valued their commitment to social awareness. In the long run, these companies strengthened their brands by showing cultural sensitivity.
Impacts on the Ice Cream Industry
Sales and Marketing Shifts in the Ice Cream Industry
The name change from Eskimo Pie to Edy’s Pie was part of a broader shift in the ice cream industry. Many companies, including Dreyer’s Grand Ice Cream, began to rethink their marketing strategies to appeal to today’s more socially aware consumers. As a result, brands had to adjust how they promoted their products.
The rebranding of Eskimo Pie, for example, required new packaging, advertising, and messaging. Instead of focusing on outdated imagery, Dreyer’s shifted to more inclusive messages that highlighted the simple joy of enjoying ice cream. By doing this, they distanced themselves from any negative associations tied to the old brand name. The company made sure that consumers connected the new Edy’s Pie with happy memories, not controversy.
As other brands in the industry faced similar challenges, the focus on cultural sensitivity became more common. Companies realized that their marketing needed to reflect modern values. For many, this meant placing more emphasis on inclusivity and diversity, not just in advertisements but also in product packaging and brand messaging.
Dreyer’s Grand Ice Cream’s Strategic Marketing Campaigns
After renaming Eskimo Pie to Edy’s Pie, Dreyer’s launched several strategic campaigns to promote the new brand. The company focused on the product’s core identity—delicious ice cream—and shifted the conversation away from the name change. Instead, they used positive, inclusive messaging to attract new and loyal customers alike.
For instance, they created ads that celebrated the joy of eating ice cream with family and friends. These campaigns appealed to customers’ emotions and showed that ice cream is for everyone, regardless of background or identity. By doing this, Dreyer’s emphasized that the product itself had not changed—only the name and its cultural significance had evolved.
These strategic marketing efforts helped Dreyer’s navigate the transition smoothly. In fact, the rebranding reinforced the company’s commitment to creating products that bring people together, rather than dividing them. Other companies in the ice cream industry also took note, adjusting their marketing to focus on inclusivity and a shared sense of community.
The Importance of Cultural Sensitivity in Branding Eskimo Pie
Why Did They Change Eskimo Pie? The Importance of Names in Branding
Brand names are more than just labels—they carry cultural meaning. In the case of Eskimo Pie, its name and logo were linked to outdated and offensive portrayals of Inuit people. Therefore, it became necessary for the company to change the name to something more respectful and in line with today’s values.
In today’s market, consumers increasingly expect companies to be socially aware. As a result, they want brands to avoid using names or images that might hurt or stereotype others. If a company fails to adapt, it risks harming its reputation. Thus, the decision to change Eskimo Pie to Edy’s Pie was not just about business—it was also a step toward respecting all cultures.
Lessons for Other Companies from Eskimo Pie’s Name Change
Other companies can learn valuable lessons from Dreyer’s decision to change Eskimo Pie’s name. Acting proactively, before public pressure builds up, is essential. Brands that wait too long to address issues of cultural sensitivity risk damaging their image. By taking action early, companies show they care about their customers’ concerns, and in turn, they can avoid backlash.
For companies thinking about rebranding, one key lesson is clear: be mindful of how names and logos affect different groups. Brands that demonstrate inclusivity and respect will build stronger connections with their audience. In the long run, this results in greater customer loyalty and a more positive public image.
FAQs: Why Did They Change Eskimo Pie?
Why Did They Change the Name of Eskimo Pie?
Dreyer’s Grand Ice Cream decided to change the name of Eskimo Pie because of rising concerns about cultural sensitivity. The term “Eskimo” is seen as offensive by many Inuit and Yupik people. It was given to them by outsiders and carries negative meanings. In 2020, as social justice movements gained momentum, the company chose to rename the product Edy’s Pie, honoring Joseph Edy, a co-founder of the brand.
What Does Edy’s Pie Mean?
Edy’s Pie is the new name for what was once known as Eskimo Pie. The name honors Joseph Edy, who co-founded Dreyer’s Grand Ice Cream. By choosing this name, the company stayed connected to its history while moving away from an outdated and offensive term.
Is “Eskimo” Really Offensive?
Yes, the term “Eskimo” is considered offensive by many Inuit and Yupik people. It was a label given by outsiders, and it often misrepresents their true identity. Instead, many prefer terms like “Inuit” or “Yupik” that better reflect their culture. Because of this growing awareness, brands like Eskimo Pie decided to change their names to be more respectful.
Are There Other Products That Have Changed Their Names?
Yes, other brands have faced similar issues and changed their names. For example, Aunt Jemima rebranded as Pearl Milling Company, and Uncle Ben’s became Ben’s Original. These changes show how many companies are responding to the need for more respectful and inclusive branding.
How Did the Public React to the Name Change?
The public reaction was mixed. Some people appreciated the effort to be more culturally sensitive. However, others felt nostalgic for the old name and didn’t understand the need for the change. Despite the differing opinions, companies like Dreyer’s chose to move forward with rebranding to align with modern values. Over time, many consumers have accepted the changes.
Conclusion
The decision to rename Eskimo Pie to Edy’s Pie shows how important it is for businesses to be aware of cultural sensitivity. As brands learn more about how their names and images affect different communities, they need to adjust to fit modern expectations. The word “Eskimo” is seen as offensive by many, so Dreyer’s Grand Ice Cream made a good choice by changing the name.
This change is part of a larger movement, with other companies like Aunt Jemima and Uncle Ben’s making similar changes. These efforts highlight how important it is for businesses to stay connected to social values and listen to their customers. By doing this, they not only show respect for different groups but also build stronger relationships with more aware audiences.
In the end, the name change from Eskimo Pie to Edy’s Pie reminds us that names matter. Brands have the power to influence people’s views, and choosing respectful names is key in today’s world. As more companies follow this example, we will likely see more positive and inclusive branding in the future.