bbc.com
Viral TikTok Trend Drives Demand for Dubai Chocolate Bar, Leading to UK Supermarket Copies
A Dubai-based chocolatier's Knafeh-inspired chocolate bar, initially sold exclusively in the UAE, has gained viral popularity on TikTok, leading to increased demand and copycat versions in UK supermarkets like Lidl and Waitrose, highlighting the power of social media marketing and the global reach of niche food trends.
- What is the global impact of a viral TikTok video on the sales and distribution of a niche food product, like the Dubai chocolate bar?
- A Dubai-based chocolatier's Knafeh-inspired chocolate bar, initially sold only in the UAE, has gone viral on TikTok, leading to a surge in demand and the creation of copycat versions in UK supermarkets like Lidl and Waitrose. The original bar, priced at approximately £15, is handmade with premium ingredients and limited to 500 orders daily, while imitations sell for significantly less. This unexpected success story highlights the power of social media marketing and the global reach of niche food trends.
- How did the original creator's cultural background and entrepreneurial approach contribute to the success and challenges of the Dubai chocolate bar?
- The viral popularity of the "Dubai chocolate" bar showcases the intersection of social media trends, cultural fusion, and consumer demand. A TikTok video featuring the bar garnered nearly seven million likes, driving demand and prompting UK supermarkets to stock similar products, demonstrating the significant influence of online content on food sales. The contrast in price and production methods between the original and copycat bars reflects differing priorities in scale and quality.
- What are the long-term implications for the market and future trends in food manufacturing and sales based on this rapid rise in popularity driven by a viral social media campaign?
- The success of the "Dubai chocolate" bar presents a case study in the rapid expansion of a niche product fueled by viral social media marketing. The high price point of the original bar, justified by its artisanal production, contrasts with the lower-priced supermarket alternatives, signaling a potential shift in consumer preferences toward either exclusivity or affordability. Future implications include broader trends in online food marketing and the increasing importance of social media influence on product popularity and market competition.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The narrative is structured as a positive story about the success of FIX Chocolatier, emphasizing the founders' entrepreneurial journey and the product's viral popularity. The challenges faced are downplayed, and the focus remains on the positive aspects of the story, which might create an overly optimistic and potentially misleading impression of the chocolate market. Headlines and subheadings highlight the sensational aspects (e.g., "From Dubai to Lidl") and the overwhelming demand, potentially overshadowing critical considerations.
Language Bias
The article uses positive and admiring language to describe the original "Dubai chocolate" bar ("viral," "inspired," "premium ingredients"), while employing less flattering terms for the copycat versions ("copycat," "knockoffs," "very frustrating"). The use of words like "craze" and "surge in popularity" also contributes to a more sensationalized and less objective tone. More neutral alternatives could include describing the imitations as "similar products" or "alternative versions" rather than "knockoffs.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses heavily on the success story of FIX Chocolatier and its "Dubai chocolate" bar, but omits discussion of the broader market for similar products or the potential impact of this trend on smaller artisanal chocolate makers. While acknowledging copycat bars, it doesn't explore the ethical implications of imitation in the food industry or the challenges faced by smaller businesses competing with larger corporations like Lindt.
False Dichotomy
The article presents a somewhat simplified view of the "Dubai chocolate" phenomenon, contrasting the original FIX bar with its imitations as if there is only a clear choice between high-quality, expensive artisanal product and cheaper, mass-produced alternatives. It doesn't explore potential middle-ground options or acknowledge that quality can vary significantly among imitations.
Gender Bias
While both founders are mentioned, the narrative emphasizes Sarah Hamouda's pregnancy craving as the origin point of the product. While this is a factual element, it might inadvertently reinforce stereotypical associations of women with food and domesticity. The article could benefit from a more balanced portrayal of both founders' contributions to the business.
Sustainable Development Goals
The success story of FIX Chocolatier demonstrates significant economic growth, job creation, and entrepreneurial success. The company's expansion from a small operation to employing 20 people and fulfilling 500 orders daily directly contributes to economic growth and decent work opportunities. The founders' journey, from juggling corporate jobs to building a successful business, exemplifies entrepreneurial success and highlights the potential for economic empowerment.