Chicken Licken ‘discontinues’ iconic rubber bands: South Africans in a flap over April Fools’ prank

Update: It looks like Chicken Licken had us all fooled with its April Fools’ joke

Fast-food giant Chicken Licken has announced the discontinuation of its signature rubber bands. For years, these bands were a staple of the brand’s packaging, used to secure boxes and prevent food from spilling during transit.

The restaurant chain released a statement on Tuesday, noting that the decision came after “much consideration”.

“After much consideration, we’ve made the decision to discontinue our rubber bands at all Chicken Licken branches with immediate effect,” the company stated. “Remaining rubber bands will be available while stocks last. Thank you for your continued support and understanding.”

The news sparked a wave of nostalgia and concern across social media. While some customers appreciated the shift, many reacted with sadness, citing the rubber band as a unique and practical part of the Chicken Licken experience.

Rudi van Jaarsveld on Facebook said she’ll miss the iconic rubber bands.

“We’ll miss you, rubber bands. You weren’t just holding boxes together; you were holding our lives together during that bumpy Uber Eats ride. They stretched themselves thin for us, and now we’re left with nothing but loose boxes and tighter pants... R.I.P.”

Beyond the nostalgia, the announcement raised practical questions regarding food security and value.

Nicole April on Facebook argued that the removal of the bands should reflect in the cost. “Then you have to lower the price, because I was paying for the rubber band,” she noted.

Nelisiwe Nxumalo urged Chicken Licken to ensure their boxes are up to the task without the extra help. “We trust that you are improving your packaging to be secure enough. You didn’t just decide on rubber bands for decoration, right?”

Other users called for a complete overhaul of the packaging, suggesting plastic bags be ditched in favour of more secure packaging.

For many, the rubber band was more than just a tool.

“What would Chicken Licken be without rubber bands?” asked Rollingstone Letoaba, while Nala Lucy echoed the sentiment, calling the bands “iconic”.

Some customers used the opportunity to voice other grievances, calling for a reduction in the salt content of the signature chicken. Here are more reactions from X: