Surprisingly Genius: Unconventional Marketing Collabs That Actually Worked
It’s April Fools’ Day—prime time for brand mischief. But some of the best marketing moments aren’t pranks at all—they’re unexpected collaborations that make audiences do a double take and drive serious engagement.
In a world where attention spans are short and brand loyalty is hard-won, breaking category norms might just be the smartest move in your marketing playbook. Here’s a look at some of the most unconventional, eyebrow-raising, and downright brilliant collabs from recent months that prove creativity wins—no joke.
1. Crocs x Hidden Valley Ranch
Yes, you read that right. Crocs and Hidden Valley Ranch dropped limited-edition clogs covered in ranch dressing splatter and topped with Jibbitz charms shaped like pizza and chicken wings. It was weird. It was wild. It sold out in minutes.
Lesson: Play into niche obsession. If your audiences are weirdly passionate about something, give them more of it.
2. Scrub Daddy x SpongeBob SquarePants
It was almost too on the nose—but that’s what made it genius. Scrub Daddy launched a SpongeBob-shaped sponge, marrying internet meme culture with childhood nostalgia. The result? Viral content and restocked shelves.
Lesson: Don’t overthink synergy. Sometimes the best partnerships are hiding in plain sight.
3. Cup Noodles x HipDot
Cup Noodles teamed up with HipDot to create ramen-inspired makeup—yes, we’re talking lip gloss with a scent of spicy noodles and eye palettes with “Teriyaki” and “Chili” shades.
Lesson: Sensory branding isn’t just about product. Think unexpected connections that spark curiosity (and selfies).
4. McDonald’s x Cactus Plant Flea Market
McDonald’s joined forces with streetwear brand CPFM to drop Adult Happy Meals—complete with collectible toys featuring trippy, googly-eyed versions of classic characters.
Lesson: Nostalgia sells. When you remix childhood favorites with hype culture, you get lines out the door and viral buzz.
5. Chipotle x Tony Hawk
In a wild but effective crossover, Chipotle teamed up with skateboarding legend Tony Hawk to launch a burrito-themed in-game challenge within the Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater video game. Players could unlock an exclusive “Tony Hawk Burrito” and even win early access to the remastered game–just by ordering through the Chipotle app.
Lesson: Collaborations don’t need to be obvious–they just need to spark excitement and meet your people where they are.
The Power of Unlikely Partnerships
Unlikely partnerships spark conversations. They help brands step outside the algorithm echo chamber and reach new audiences in bold, buzzworthy ways.
So on this April Fools’ Day, ask yourself: “What’s the most unexpected brand we could collaborate with—and what story could we tell together?”
Because sometimes, the best marketing idea is the one no one saw coming.
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