Breaking away from traditional branded merchandise, McDonald’s China unveiled a uniquely designed fry-themed backpack in celebration of their 12th annual Big Fries Day. Inspired by the brand’s iconic brown paper takeaway bag, this limited-edition accessory merges novelty with functionality. What makes it stand out? The backpack doesn’t just echo McDonald’s well-known design language—it elevates it into a wearable piece with unexpected features.
Designer: McDonald’s China
From Homemade Idea to Official Merchandise
This innovative concept stemmed from a fan creation. A Chinese craft blogger crafted a homemade backpack mimicking McDonald’s packaging, which quickly caught the brand’s attention. Collaborating with the original designer, McDonald’s China turned this fan-made homage into an official product, perfectly timed with the brand’s Big Fries Day celebration, linked to the Chinese solar term Dashu, or Major Heat.
Design and Cultural Meaning
The connection between Major Heat and “da shu,” which sounds like large fries in Chinese, allowed McDonald’s to root this culinary themed backpack in local culture. The backpack maintains the appearance of its paper counterpart with a durable DuPont paper exterior, adorned with familiar Golden Arches and fry graphics. An order receipt-shaped charm and fry-like zipper pulls further emphasize its fast-food heritage.
Features That People Can Actually Use
The most eye-catching elements of the accessory are the red fry carton-shaped side pockets, secured with Velcro, designed to hold actual fries. These pockets can be removed for a sleeker look, while the backpack also includes a compartment specifically for ketchup. Inside, the bag features practical design elements, such as laptop dividers, making it suitable for both work and leisure.
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Commuters will appreciate the main compartment, which can accommodate a 13- or 14-inch laptop, and the cleverly designed shoulder strap, which holds a fry carton upright. It’s a playful yet functional nod to those who enjoy their fries on the move with their unique backpack.
Source: yankodesign.com
Frequently asked questions
What inspired the design of McDonald’s China backpack?
The design was inspired by McDonald’s iconic brown paper takeaway bag and a homemade backpack created by a Chinese craft blogger.
How does the backpack celebrate local culture?
The backpack celebrates local culture by rooting its theme in the Chinese solar term Dashu, or Major Heat, which sounds like ‘large fries’ in Chinese.
What are some features of the backpack?
The backpack features removable red fry carton-shaped side pockets secured with Velcro, a compartment specifically for ketchup, and internal design elements like laptop dividers.