fact of the day

WTF Fun Fact 13466 – Cologne That Smells Like WD40

If you love the smell of a bustling workshop, you might appreciate a unique new cologne that smells like WD40 If so, this might be your dream come true. It’s called “Eau de Industrie.”

“Eau de Industrie” – The cologne that smells like WD40

The idea of a WD-40 scented cologne is nothing short of audacious, to say the least. However, it emerged from the creative minds at MSCHF, a company known for its innovative concepts. The team decided to push the envelope with a scent that recreates the distinct smell of this universal DIY staple.

As bizarre as it may sound, “Eau de Industrie” is a testament to the creativity of modern perfume makers. Creating a fragrance that successfully captures the essence of a substance known for its lubricating properties rather than its aromatic appeal is no small feat.

The creators of the cologne had to strike the perfect balance between replicating the recognizable scent of the spray and ensuring it was wearable. It’s a distinctively metallic, slightly smoky, and ultimately unmistakable aroma.

Would you wear it?

There’s a growing market for unconventional colognes and perfumes. Scent profiles now extend far beyond the traditional floral, musk, and citrus bases. Fragrances inspired by the smell of things like fresh rain, old books, or even a specific city are gaining popularity. WD-40 cologne is part of this wave, appealing to those with a penchant for the smell of a busy workshop.

Now, if you want to get your hands on “Eau de Industrie” you’re in for a challenge. The cologne immediately sold out on the company’s website. While it sold for $44, resellers have marked up the price significantly. Of course, you should never substitute the cologne with the real thing! Just keep your fingers crossed for a restock.

— WTF fun facts

Source: “MSCHF Releases “Smells Like WD-40″ Cologne” — Hypebeast

WTF Fun Fact 13465 – Hamburger University

It’s harder to get into McDonald’s Hamburger University than some Ivy League schools.

That’s right, McDonald’s is in the business of education. Hamburger University, or HU as it’s commonly referred to, was founded in 1961 by Fred Turner, McDonald’s former senior chairman and one of Ray Kroc’s earliest employees. He recognized that the success of the rapidly expanding McDonald’s franchise was dependent on consistent quality and service. So, Turner decided to open a training center. The goal? To educate franchisees on the methods of running a successful and efficient McDonald’s restaurant.

The first campus was situated in the basement of a McDonald’s restaurant in Elk Grove Village, Illinois. With only a handful of students, the inaugural class might have been small, but the idea was grand. Today, Hamburger University boasts seven campus locations worldwide, including Tokyo, London, and Shanghai.

What You Learn at Hamburger University

When it comes to the curriculum, HU is not, contrary to what you might think, a place to perfect the art of burger flipping. Instead, the University provides a comprehensive leadership development program. The classes taught at HU are rigorous and cover restaurant fundamentals, business growth strategies, leadership skills, and management systems.

Graduates receive a Bachelor of Hamburgerology degree, a whimsical yet fitting title that encapsulates the unique education provided at the university.

The Global Influence of Hamburger University

The global reach and impact of Hamburger University are noteworthy. In China, for example, getting into Hamburger University is a highly competitive feat, with an acceptance rate even lower than Harvard’s. The demand for HU in China reflects the country’s fast-growing fast-food market and the value placed on the managerial training provided by McDonald’s.

The influence of HU extends beyond McDonald’s restaurants. Many HU graduates have used their skills to start their businesses or move into senior roles in other industries.

Investing in People

The story of HU highlights McDonald’s understanding that its most significant investment is its people. The institution represents the company’s commitment to providing career advancement opportunities for its employees. It’s also dedicated to ensuring uniform standards of quality and service in McDonald’s outlets worldwide.

By investing in employee development, McDonald’s improves its operations and contributes to the broader community by providing valuable business skills.

So, whether you’re munching on a Quarter Pounder in the heart of New York or enjoying a Filet-O-Fish in a bustling Tokyo outlet, remember: the efficient service and consistent taste are likely to have been honed at McDonald’s very own higher education institution, the Hamburger University.

— WTF fun facts

Source: “Lessons from McDonald’s Hamburger University: Training For Retention” — LA Eats