Keith Nallawalla
Ever since 2015 when David and I first bought the domain name for Good/Bad Marketing we had planned to create a mega-post of April Fools’ posts by brands. Now, 6 years later I’ve actually remembered to save lots of them, plus I dug up plenty I’d shared with him in the past. So here’s a collection of April Fools’ post ideas for brands all in one spot, so if you’re looking for ideas on how to fool your social media followers in the future, perhaps you can get some inspiration from what brands have done in the past.
The rules of April Fools’ Day
In modern times, April Fools’ Day has turned into a 24-hour event due to timezones being different across the world. The rules for it don’t translate as well into the online world, as you are expected to do any pranks before 12 pm in your local time. This leads to lots of people in the United States who forget that other countries exist getting totally baffled when a viral April Fools’ post from New Zealand or Australia appears in their feed a day early. Seriously, check the comments next time, you’ll see plenty of people who think they are clever commenting that this Australian page has messed up by posting their April Fools’ post a day earlier.
If you are an individual, famous or not it is in poor taste to joke about pregnancy announcements, engagements or breakups. Whilst brands don’t really have to worry about such a thing, there’s always a dumb celebrity who will post something that goes against this, with Tori Spelling faking the announcement of her 6th child for April Fools’ 2021. So did Zayn Malik’s sister Safaa Malik.This is of course offensive and insensitive to those who have been unable to conceive or had miscarriages, so please do not trivialise such a thing as April Fools’ is meant to be a bit of fun, not something to polarise your friends or fans.
Subway’s Coriander Cookie (2021)
Subway in Australia and New Zealand (and possibly others) all shared this obviously fake image of coriander Subway cookies. This worked well as Subway is famous for its cookies and coriander is possibly the most polarising cooking ingredient ever. So why not tease your fans with something that will clearly ruin your best product? People definitely got a kick out of this, except for a bunch of confused Americans who saw this a day early.
Subway Kebab “SubBab” (2023)
“Made fresh for you between the hours of 7pm and 2am. Because if you’re going to wake up with regrets, don’t make food one of them. #SubBab”
Pornhub’s April Fools’ Prank
This is from a few years ago, after some research, I found that this was an actual popup that visitors to the site saw and it freaked them out. This led to a lot of funny Reddit posts.
I guess this prank was great because it was more than a simple social media post and it taps into the fear of many of its users.
Boost Juice’s Underwear & Lingerie Line
This juicy post is from a few years ago and it references the 12 pm rule, where April Fools’ is over and is quite on-brand for this cheeky Australian juice chain. I imagine if this were a real product, it would have done well.
Boost Juice Removes Popular Menu Item
This 2021 post was successful as it introduced Boost Juice’s real new vegan smoothy range, but the joke was that it was removing another popular item – Mango Magic. This triggered a lot of mango fans and their friends to rapidly tag each other in the post. A simple and effective way to get social media visibility.
Vegemite x Dare Iced Coffee
Vegemite has had some surprising real crossovers in the past, often ones no one was asking for but would try out of curiosity including Vegesmite Cadbury Chocolate, Vegemite crust pizza at Pizza Hut and Vegemite Boost Juice. This means that just about anything seems possible for them to try and crossover with, making their April Fools’ posts seem that little bit more believable.
Above is their 2021 post about Vegemite flavour Dare Iced Coffee, an easy collaboration, as both of these brands are owned by Bega Cheese Limited, giving that extra cross-promotion for the parent company.
Vegemite X Volley (2019)
A fake collaboration with the shoe brand Volley, this 2019 April Fools’ day prank pokes fun at all the crazy collaborations between clothing and shoe brands, which are still rampant to this day. The Scratch N Sniff function is particularly funny as no one really wants to sniff their shoes. This collaboration wouldn’t be too surprising if it were real though, given Vegemite has previously partnered with Australian clothing brand Peter Alexander.
The Big Vegemite (2015)
Australia is known for its oversized object roadside attractions, such as the Big Banana. Why not a giant Vegemite jar at their Port Melbourne factory?
Vegemite X Tim Tam (2022)
“This is no April Fools… Tim Tam VEGEMITE is REAL! Head over to Arnott’s Tim Tam for your chance to win 1 of 5 packs of these MITEY delicious limited-edition biscuits!”
Vegemite X Chatime (2023)
!Even Government & Emergency Services can have April Fools’ Fun
Here’s a post from Queensland Fire & Emergency from 2019 – “Excited to ‘launch’ our new aerial swift water rescue squad. These specialist firefighters recently finished intensive jetpack training with some of the world’s leading experts from NASA. They’re now undergoing final testing before the jetpacks are introduced statewide by 2021.”
Tasmania Police’s New Drug Sniffer Pig
It’s good to see that the police have a sense of humour, even if their Photoshop skills aren’t so great.
Travelodge’s bed share (2019)
Poking fun at today’s sharing economy with Airbnb and particularly, Uber’s Uberpool where you can share a ride with strangers going in the same direction as you, Travelodge promoted a deal where you could get a 50% discount if you shared your room with another stranger.
McDonald’s Three Fries Portions (2021)
Whilst obviously an April Fools’ prank, McDonald’s has used this as a subtle way to remind people of the My McDonald’s App, perhaps even making a few people check it or download it to look for the offer.
McDonald’s McPickle Burger (2019)
In 2019 McDonald’s shared their image of the McPickle Burger. A Big Mac-style burger but with pickles instead of beef and lettuce. Highlighting the most polarising hamburger ingredient, the pickle in such a way is guaranteed to stir controversy and get lots of shares and tagging from people on both sides of the pickle fence.
McDonald’s AprilFoolProof post (2021)
This is a different way to do an April Fools’ post, that’s for sure and by promoting an actual health benefit for one of its burgers for a change. This is a clever and different way to do an April Fools’ post by a brand.
McDonald’s McFry (2023)
“The ultimate Mac-hack now comes made to order, as we take the classic Quarter Pounder and stack it with Australia’s fave fries. No mess. No fuss. No worries. We’ve made it so you don’t have to! Get your hands on the McFry today. Available until yesterday.”
Coon Cheese Cheesy Pop
I saved this screenshot a few years ago, Coon, an Australian cheese brand has now renamed itself after the racist-sounding name of the brand. A few years ago I actually mentioned their troublesome name in my article about racist and homophobic products in Australia. Cheese on a stick though? Yeah, that’s something I could get behind!
Coles Supermarkets Hover Trolley
I find this to be one of the less interesting inclusions as it doesn’t have any sense of believability to it. If it doesn’t catch someone off-guard for a second, I don’t believe it is fulfilling its purpose. That being said, a hover trolley at Coles would certainly be nice.
Destination Gold Coast – Underwater Rollercoaster (2022)
Hold your breath as the Gold Coast welcomes the world’s first underwater rollercoaster. 
Not for the faint-hearted or the ocean-fearers, this new fully immersive experience stands a total of 40m tall, and roughly 20m above the ocean surface at full tide. 
Riders will be taken on a 1km amphibious journey through the big blue, exposed to all of nature’s elements including local marine life, coral vistas and the salty breeze and water. 
This multi-million dollar investment will see the Gold Coast elevate from Australia’s favourite playground to the World’s favourite playground!
The Office Movie by Amazon Prime Video (2021)
This is just cruel teasing a movie for the beloved sitcom The Office (US). It does well to tap into a rabid fanbase who would surely want to believe it to be real and share it and tag friends, even if they know it’s fake.
Guinness Flavoured Milk
This isn’t terrible, but some of the other brands have done the flavoured milk joke better by making it related to a second brand. Something about this just doesn’t really feel real. The expiration date is a cool feature though.
WWF Australia’s Zerangaroo
I don’t think this fooled anyone, but it’s good to see posts from a wide range of brands and businesses, including those in animal conservation.
IKEA’s FLIKEA – Budget Airlines
To be honest, if IKEA made an airline, it would probably be amazing.
IKEA HUND COUTURE (2021)
“We may have launched HUND COUTURE on April Fools’ Day, but we take design seriously. That’s why you can get your paws on all three outfit instruction manuals and patterns to make the outfits at home. It’s time to grab some FRAKTA bags and turn them into something haute.”
IKEA has truly gone above and beyond in 2021 with this video as well as printable instructions to make each dog costume at home.
For archival reasons, here are the download files for each IKEA Hund Couture design:
The effort involved in this is great. Well done!
Nando’s Peri Plump Lip Kit (2021)
“Ever wished you could display your favourite Nando’s basting on your LIPS? Of course, you have. And now you can…” People like their lips plump and their chicken plumper, this Nando’s Peri Plump Lip Kit seems very on-brand. It highlights their range of peri-peri bastings and sauces in a way that likens it to different coloured makeup.
Nando’s Peri-Peri Zero (2023)
Introducing PERi-PERi Zero 
Lovingly crafted without any delicious ingredients, it’s light on calories and completely guilt free!
Weet-Bix / Heinz Baked Beans (2022)
“We’ve been working hard with our friends over at Heinz ANZ to create an even more convenient brekkie option for Aussies. Introducing.. #BeansOnBix.. in a can! How do you do yours?”
The Jolly Miller Cafe (2022)
“So excited to introduce a new size offering for our beloved Takeaway Coffee 
Carnival Cruise Line Australia (2022)
This was sneakily posted a day early on March 31st 2022.
“Time to raise the woof! Introducing Carnival Unleashed. Our first dogs only cruise, where your four legged friends can expect 100% pawsome fun. Comment below if you have a furry friend that should be first on board.”
LEGOLAND Discovery Centre’s Dan Andrews Sculpture (2021)
This one actually got me, being the first thing I saw when I woke up with no concept of what day or month it was. Legoland Discovery Centre in Melbourne shared an image of a sculpture of Victorian Premier Dan Andrews. This seemed like a weird choice of someone to build a sculpture of, given he is such a polarising figure. He was the Premier who had some of the hardest COVID-19 lockdowns in Australia, which many people were unhappy about. But it worked and Victoria has been basically COVID-free for a while now. Had this been a real thing, I’m sure it would have been vandalised.
This post was effective because they went to the actual effort to build a realistic image of the product, despite it looking a bit smaller than what is promised. It uses its Lego products and taps into s comically polarising character in its local area. Great job!
The post was also clever in that it linked back to their website with an article about the fake project. This is good as it helps promote the location, bring new visitors to the website and perhaps they have some remarketing banners coming soon.
LEGOLAND Discovery Centre Melbourne Architecture Set (2022)
“To Celebrate the city of Melbourne’s birthday (August 30th) LEGO are Launching a brand new Architecture set “Melbourne” 
Complete with brick built landmarks including The Eureka Tower, The Royal Exhibition Building, Flinders Street train station and a mini Melbourne Tram to help you navigate this amazing set! 
This set was designed by LEGOLAND Discovery Centres previous Master Model Builder Kieran in tribute to our great city”
M&M’S Australia – Skittles M&M’S
New! M&M’S and Skittles IN THE SAME BAG? 
We’re excited to introduce this delicious new treat, with M&M’S and Skittles pre-mixed so you can enjoy a chocolate and fruity flavour in one bite. 
Big M Choc Berry (2022)
This was cruel, pretending a popular limited edition flavour was returning.
“April Fool’s! Sorry to all the Choc Berry lovers out there, this old favourite isn’t making a return. It’s not all bad news though, something else is on it’s way… 
“
Big M Tomato Sauce (2023)
Pairs perfectly with a pie at the footy or a snag 
Keep an eye out for this saucy new flavour, coming soon 
#BigM“Australian Young Greens – Potato Frisbees (2022)
“For too long this nation has been divided!
We haven’t been able to decide if it is potato scallop or potato cake but no more.
In the tradition of The Greens commitment to consensus decision making we are please to announce our new policy for potato frisbees. This way we can meet in the middle neither side can be smug.
And we’re gonna pay for it by seizing the assets of the potato bourgeoisie and form the dictatorship of the potatoletariat 
“
Modibodi Period Pupwear (2023)
Period Pupwear™ , featuring our absorbent technology and designed specially for dogs on heat.
Farmer Wants A Wife (2023)
“Say hello to Farmer Alf! 
All the way from Summer Bay, Alf can’t wait to meet his perfect match 
#FarmerAU starts April 10 on Channel 7 and 7plus 
“
SMASH! Sydney Manga and Anime Show
“As the experienced con-goers that we are, we all know the pain. Dragging around 6 bags of merch in each hand, running from photoshoot to photoshoot from one side of the con to the other while wearing fifteen layers of cosplay and carrying props that stop you from fitting in the door, or waking up at the crack of dawn to line up in the crowd in the sun, hoping to catch a glimpse of the VIP guests.
That’s why we are OFFICIALLY announcing: SMASH! Deodorant!
SMASH! away the smell of con and make sure you’re feeling fresh as ever with our three scents!
SUGOI – Sparkly, flamboyant and flashy!
Show off those painful hours of con crunch 
KAWAII – Sweet and floral
, lemme see your smile!
BAKA – I’ve had 2 hours of sleep in the last 3 days
, LOOK AT ME!!
COMING SOON!?!??
PAX AUS (2023)
“Job posted on Saturday, 1 April 2023
An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced Ibis Trainer to join the PAX Aus team in a full time capacity!
About the opportunity
A successful applicant will have a demonstrated ability to work in a high performance environment, with a capacity to deliver all requirements of the role, great work ethic and the ability to work to a high standard within a team. The ibis is a majestic beast, some consider it the apex species of our planet – vast knowledge including but not limited to meme knowledge and lame dad jokes are a must.
What you’ll be doing in this role
As a trainer, you have primary responsibility for ensuring the care and well-being of the animals in your care. You must also be understanding and sensitive to the needs of the animals in your care. You must be able to be one with the ibis. They were here before us and will probably outlive us.
You are also responsible for the animals’ exhibits, maintenance, landscaping and presenting at daily demonstrations where applicable. PAX Aus expects all its keepers to be dedicated to the role, owl and duck enthusiasts need not apply.
At PAX Aus, trainers continually work towards providing improved facilities and care for their animals. They do this with enthusiasm and motivation toward their individual learning and training. Ibis have very specific demands – they require a fresh new Pin each and every year. They are happiest when left with the sweet, sweet tunes of Country Roads.
Your work will include
- Undertake cleaning and maintenance of the animal enclosures as required. The ibis demands perfection.
- Assist with the planning, development and construction of enclosures. We like to show them off – they are after all a bit of an Aussie icon.
- Must communicate well with others and effectively share information as required. Ibis can sense poor communication skills.
- Conduct animal health checks. We need them in tip top shape at all times.
- Prepare food and conduct feeding of the animals in your care in accordance with dietary requirements, feeding schedules and procedures (chips on a stick). Those who are really out to impress for the role will be able to bake Sweet Rolls. Unsure what these are? You need not apply.
- Conduct environment and enclosure safety checks. They have been known to riot and dismantle governments.
- Undertake animal enrichment programs. They get bored – complex Tabletop RPGs recommended!
- Undertake public speaking and/or delivery of demonstrations. Ibis appreciate well constructed performance pieces with high production values and delivery. They can tell if you’re an inexperienced stage hand.
Who we’re looking for
- 2-3 years of experience in a similar role, including husbandry, keeping and training experience along with the willingness to learn new animal handling techniques. Ibis tend to grow bored during the colder months of the year. Those with thorough Omegathon expertise and knowledge will know exactly how to keep them busy.
- 7 day a week availability and flexibility, including weekends, public holidays and school holidays
- High level of motivation and long-term commitment. We expect you to give these creatures more time than your friends and family.
- A broad interest in avian species (as we said earlier, owl and duck enthusiasts need not apply)
- Willingness to offer suggestions and accept constructive and non constructive feedback from the ibis
- Knowledge and understanding of PAX Aus. We expect you to retain the keynote speaker from all years, even the US ones.
- Applicants must be fit for physical work, enthusiastic, mature minded, confident, well-presented and able to demonstrate a high level of work-ethic and initiative
- Hold current Driver’s Licence (Manual) and own transport. This ibis enjoys being driven around. There is an expectation of late night nuggies trips.”
Arnott’s Tim Tam / Jatz (2023)
“Introducing Tim Tam Jatz 
Indulge in this decadent sweet & salty treat, with crisp layers of Jatz sandwiching the luscious, velvety Tim Tam cream centre, all covered in smooth chocolate. What more could you wish for?”
Billson’s Vodka (2023)
Billson’s Breakfast Series is here! 
Chilli Chorizo Breakfast Burrito
Maple Bacon Vanilla Crêpes
Smashed Avo & Banana Toast
Everyone’s favourite meal is now everyone’s favourite Billson’s! 
Talk about the breakfasts of champions – which one are you starting with? 
Billson’s Chilli Chorizo Breakfast Burrito
Billson’s Maple Bacon Vanilla Crêpes Vodka
Billson’s Smashed Avo & Banana Toast Vodka
Burger Urge – Ibis Tenders (2023)
Presenting… FORBIDDEN CHICKEN TENDERS 
In association with Wildlife Management Australia we’re now serving delicious IBIS.
Free range, ethically sourced and deep fried, these tenders have a crunchy, sweet & spicy coating. It’s a uniquely Australian taste.
Limited time. Only at Burger Urge!
Suzuki Prescription Windshields (2023)
“Say goodbye to blurry vision and hello to crystal-clear sight with our new Prescription Windshields. Made with precision-engineered, distortion-free lenses, this cutting-edge technology corrects your vision and provides you with a clear, unobstructed view of the road ahead. Visit our website to find out more – https://bit.ly/3G5hiH1”
The website takes you to a page that says:
April Fools
You probably should have worn your Prescription Windshield, because if you look a little closer you’ll see this eye test says: ‘APRIL FOOLS’.
Keep an eye out for other internet hazards this fools day.
Queensland Fire and Emergency Services – QFES (2023)
Tupperware 2023
We’re all about recycling at Tupperware! Introducing our NEW Tupperware Lamps! Available online to purchase now www.tupperware.com.au #sustainable #reusable
Rekorderlig Cider (2023)
Grafico – Walls “Albo” Wallpaper 2023
Our latest wallpaper range entitled “Albo” is launching today! Suitable for almost any decor! Be sure to check it out on the Grafico online shop! Proudly made right here in Australia 
#whatwillyougrafico ? #graficowalls
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*Definitely not endorsed by any political party or individual – “Albo” wallpaper range only available April 1, 2023 or until stocks run out!
Spirit of Tasmania Submarine (2023)
Prepare to experience Bass Strait as no spirited traveller has before.. 
Sea breezeViews from the deck
An unforgettable journey
San Churro – Churro Dog (2023)
lachurrocasa.sanchurro.comFarmers Union Iced Coffee Deodorant (2023)
“April Fools! Unfortunately you won’t be smelling like your favourite drink anytime soon 
Start your day smelling as fresh as a FUIC! Introducing our new FUIC deodorant, now you can have your FUIC and smell like it too.
For 48 hour freshness, it’s a Farmers Union Iced Coffee or it’s nothing! #FarmersUnionIcedCoffee”
Vic Roads – Emoji Signs (2023)
By rolling out the new signs, we’d like to remind everyone to always obey road signs to keep everyone safe.”
Spotify Train Carriage (2023)
“At your local train station near you 
“
Poomba by Madpaws (2023)
Reading Cinemas – Glow in the Dark Popcorn (2023)
Donut King – Chicken Salt Donuts (2023)
“The cinni lovers have spoken. Added to the Hot Cinni line up – Chicken Salt Cinnis have arrived 
Head in store to get your cloud-like crunch with a twist!”
Libra – Nose Tampons (2023)
The Oodie (2023)
“mini oodies… coming soon 
“
The City of Melbourne – The Big Flat White (2023)
Four’N Twenty Fairy Bread Meat Pie (2023)
From the hungry hordes in the outer to the kids ripping apart the food table at the 6 years olds birthday party – we have listened. Presenting a collab 75 years in the making. A true Australian icon.
Walker’s Doughnuts Baked Bean Filling (2023)
Brumby’s Fairy Bread Loaf (2023)
Slice and eat, it’s that easy! Available in-store now*.
