Walmart's limited-edition rotisserie chicken purse, launched on September 1 for $5.97, sold out within hours of its debut and is now appearing on resale sites for approximately $48.
The accessory, released to coincide with National Chicken Month, mimics the design of Walmart's iconic rotisserie chicken packaging, complete with the brand's logo and nutritional information. Available in two styles—traditional and lemon pepper—the purses are crafted from synthetic leather and polyester lining and include a shoulder strap.
Kim Tunick, group director of brand experiences and partnerships at Walmart, stated that the initiative was a response to the rotisserie chicken's significant social media presence, noting over 15,000 mentions in the past year. "We wanted to celebrate this fandom by giving the rotisserie chicken its own moment. The Chicken Purse turns that love into something customers can carry with them," Tunick said.
Walmart estimates that about one in every twelve customers purchases a rotisserie chicken annually, highlighting the product's popularity. The company also introduced a collection of charms inspired by popular chicken pairings, such as hot sauce and lemon pepper seasoning, which also retail for $5.97 and $4 respectively.
The retail giant hinted at future releases, suggesting that more items are "cooking." The viral nature of the purse has divided consumers, with some expressing a desire for the novelty item despite reservations.