Enshittification 💩- Not Just for Online Platforms

Enshittification is a term coined by writer Cory Doctorow (see his book “Enshittification”) to describe the decline of online platforms. These platforms start great for users, then shift value to business customers, and eventually degrade for everyone to maximize shareholder profits.

I started thinking about this and realized that the term can also apply to consumer goods and services, not just online platforms.

Cracker Barrel: Without getting into the logo fiasco of late, customers have been complaining about food quality. Things like cooking their biscuits in large batches, then refrigerating, rather than making them to order. Other complaints have included using cheap syrup for pancakes.

Skippy Peanut Butter: After using Skippy for decades, I will no longer buy it. My theory is that a reformulation included increasing the amount of garbage oils. The last several purchases were demonstrably enshittened as evidenced by a thin texture, a noticeable oily taste/texture, an oil sheen, and, at times, small standing deposits of oil on the surface. The aroma and taste are less peanut-ty. A house brand I purchased at a supermarket was superior in taste and texture.

Any company that sold out to venture capitalists. These VCs drop a crapton of debt on a company, while at the same time take huge “consulting” or “advising” payments for putting this together. These companies…