“I was just shaving” and “pretty bird” from 1984
Fisker
In 2012, frequent software and parts problems frustrated owners with their constant and complicated repair jobs.
Kmart
Kmart was not willing to invest in online infrastructure or e-commerce. This misstep led to its demise in 2002.
Kellogg’s Breakfast Mates
The packaging design, which was intended to be convenient, was considered strange and unappealing by consumers, which led to it’s demise in 1998.
USFL
Summer football when the NFL was in their off-season; attempted move to a fall season to compete with the NFL in 1985
Ryan Leaf
The biggest bust in NFL history; #2 overall pick by the Chargers in 1998; 4-17 record; 36 interceptions to 14 touchdowns
Schwetty Balls
Alec Baldwin played entrepreneur Pete Schwetty on Saturday Night Live’s 24th season in 1998.
Chest Wig
Vintage Halloween costume hairy chest wig; self adhesive made in England in 1991.
Honest Tea
Decline in ready-to-drink tea sales in favor of cold brew coffees and antioxidant waters led to it’s demise in 2022.
Boston Market
After distinguishing itself in the 1990s as a cut above fast food and peaking at 1200 stores, it attempted to compete with those brands by holding its costs down – a move that ultimately led to a reduction in quality.
Grocery stores, too, ate Boston Market’s lunch as they began adding rotisserie chickens to their expanding prepared-meal aisles. Essentially, Boston Market became a victim of its own success. After helping to popularize the roasted, whole chickens – in some cases, introducing the concept to consumers – the chain eventually saw the likes of Costco serve up the same things, for far cheaper leading to its demise in 1998.