April Fools’ Day is that one special time of the year when pranks are not just accepted – they’re expected.
While friends and co-workers took the opportunity to pull a few fast ones, local businesses weren’t far behind – using social media to pull legs, raise eyebrows, and get some well-earned chuckles.
Here’s our roundup of some of the most entertaining April Fools’ Day stunts pulled off by Maltese brands this year:
- D’Amato Records’ futuristic glow-up
Known as the world’s oldest record store, D’Amato Records teased a bold new direction – complete with AI-generated visuals that reimagined the shop as a futuristic, neon-lit temple of sound. Some followers were momentarily convinced, while others just applauded the clever creativity. Retro meets robo? Not quite yet.
- Kinnie gets a boost (literally)
In a country where cardiovascular disease continues to top the charts as the leading cause of death, local favourite Kinnie shook fans with news of a new Kinnie-flavoured energy drink. The announcement caused a stir – partly because some people genuinely wished it was real. After all, bittersweet with a side of caffeine? Stranger things have happened.
- The University of Malta introduces paid parking (sort of)
The University of Malta announced a new policy to start charging €0.30 per hour for on-campus parking starting 1st May. Charges, they said, would be deducted directly from staff salaries or student stipends. And yes – external vehicles would be billed. Cue panic. Fortunately, it was all in jest.
- Coop Services goes yellow
Coop Services Cooperative declared that all its school transport vans would be painted yellow for the next scholastic year – an initiative to “enhance visibility” and “maintain a professional service.” Sensible enough to sound real… but just cheeky enough to raise suspicion.
- Seafront apartments? Pillars Real Estate has something better
Tired of landlocked living? Pillars Real Estate offered a tantalising (and entirely fake) solution: Floating apartments. These “sea homes” promised self-adjusting sea levels, built-in fishing decks, jet ski parking, and even a dolphin-watching service. The sales pitch? “Pre-book yours today before they drift away!” Genius.
- Sunshine Snacks: Fried rabbit, but make it crunchy
Sunshine Snacks introduced a Crix flavour no one saw coming: Fried Rabbit. That’s right – the traditional Maltese dish now available in snack form. Equal parts bizarre and brilliant.
- Benna's fresh twist on milk
Known for championing fresh milk straight from Maltese farmers, Benna pulled a fast one by announcing the launch of UHT milk. The idea of Benna milk with a months-long shelf life and no need for refrigeration (until opened) left fans puzzled. “Still Benna… just not fresh?” they teased. Thankfully, it’s not coming to a supermarket shelf near you.
- Burger King Malta serves up Nutella Fries
“Sweet meets savoury” was the vibe at Burger King Malta with their announcement of Nutella fries. While some were instantly suspicious, others pointed out this combo actually exists in Belgium – and could very well make it here someday. So... April Fools, or product testing?
- Sottozero lip balm: Pistachio, but make it wearable
Sottozero Gelato’s prank was perhaps the most deliciously fashionable. They “launched” a vegan lip balm line infused with their famous pistachio gelato. Smooth, creamy, and entirely made up.
Whether people fell for the gags or simply appreciated the effort, one thing is for sure: Malta’s marketing teams brought their A-game this April Fools’ Day.
