Lab Snacks (trademarked LAB SNACKS A TREAT FOR HUMANS) are printed cardboard boxes filled with pre-packaged snack foods such as nuts, pretzels, granola bars, and fruit snacks shipped with all orders from Thorlabs, Inc.[1] Lab Snacks are distributed regionally through global manufacturing locations in the United States, Germany, China, Brazil, and Japan.[2] While they are not available for purchase online, Lab Snacks come with each order placed with Thorlabs, Inc.[3][4]
The idea for Lab Snacks originated through a conversation about what should be included during a catalog effort. SF Design in Michigan (now under Marketing Associates[5]) was asked to help with graphic design for the snack box concept. Steve Fritsch designed the first snack box featuring Chilly Dog. The snack box concept was run as a trial in the winter of 2002. The box featured a green dog dressed in winter gear in a snowy setting and contained winter-themed snacks like hot chocolate.
The Lab Snacks box was later redesigned with a red-colored box, and featuring the dog representing the company at the time, beginning with Dog Eat Dog.[6] The first Lab Snacks were sent out in June 2003. A smaller version called Lab Snacks Lite made its first appearance in the summer of 2008. The contents of the box have changed over time reflecting healthier snacking choices in more recent years.[7][8]
Customers have often found creative uses for the Lab Snacks boxes including lab storage or as part of a setup. Lab Snacks can also be seen in a webcomic about a group of physics graduate students.[9]
References
- ^ "LAB SNACKS A TREAT FOR HUMANS - Reviews & Brand Information - Thorlabs, Inc. Newton, NJ - Serial Number: 77840030". trademarkia.com. Retrieved 24 February 2015.
- ^ http://thorlabs.us/locations.cfm
- ^ "A prize in each box!". The Texas Triffid Ranch. Retrieved 24 February 2015.
- ^ "jenniferfenimore". jenniferfenimore. Retrieved 24 February 2015.
- ^ http://www.marketingassociates.com/pdf/SFDesignPressRelease.pdf
- ^ "Lab Snacks "A Treat For Humans" - Blue Lime". texasbluelime.com. Retrieved 24 February 2015.
- ^ "Lab Treats: A Case Study". Imgur. Retrieved 24 February 2015.
- ^ "Focus on fitness at the core of Thor Labs". spartaindependent.com. Retrieved 24 February 2015.
- ^ "Cesium Comics # 50: Lab Snacks". cesiumcomics.com. Retrieved 24 February 2015.