Redskins (confectionery)


Redskins are a red, raspberry-flavoured chewy confectionery manufactured in New Zealand by Nestlé under their Allen's brand.
The confectionery is sold as elongated bars which are individually twist-wrapped in paper, weighing approximately 10 grams each. Multi-packs and Redskin lollipops are also available.

Branding controversy

In 1996, a complaint was made to the New Zealand Advertising Standards Complaints Board about a Redskins advertisement aired on New Zealand television. The advertisement featured comedian Mark Wright dressed in American Indian clothing and assuming an accent. A mock drumbeat featured on the soundtrack. Despite protest from Nestlé New Zealand that the advertisement was inoffensive, the Board upheld the complaint.
Redskin packaging formerly featured a photo of a Native American wearing a traditional headdress. This was replaced in the late 1990s by a more neutral red character.

Name change

In June 2020, Nestlé announced that the name will be changed to represent the inclusive nature of modern society. 'Redskin' is a derogatory term for Native Americans and First Nations Canadians.
The company said the decision was made to ensure "nothing we do marginalises our friends, neighbours and colleagues". The statement added "these names have overtones which are out of step with Nestle's values, which are rooted in respect."
The announcement of a name change occurred in the wake of widespread name changes following the George Floyd protests.