Wednesday, July 1, 2026

Today's the Day for Minion Yellow!


Are you seeing yellow today? If yes, don't worry. The color is "Minion Yellow," and it's because the newest film featuring the funny little creatures from the "Despicable Me" film franchise, "Minions and Monsters," arrives in theaters today.

According to Pantone's website back in April 2019, in an industry first, "The Pantone Color Institute is excited to announce the creation of an official new PANTONE Color, Minion Yellow. Based on the Minions characters from Universal Pictures and Illumination Entertainment's "Despicable Me" global film franchise, including the upcoming prequel Minions, Pantone Minion Yellow is an illuminating, energetic, friendly, and fun-loving yellow shade that is designed to represent the sweet characters. An extroverted hue, it projects playfulness and warmth and is suggestive of intellectual curiosity and enlightenment."

Leatrice Eiseman, Executive Director, Pantone Color Institute, explained, "Just as the sun's rays enliven us, Pantone Minion Yellow is a color that heightens awareness and creates clarity, lighting the way to the intelligence, originality, and the resourcefulness of an open mind. It is the color of hope, joy, and optimism. Color is contextual, and right now, there is a desire for colors that are more vibrant and uplifting. This is especially the case with the yellows, so given the worldwide popularity of the Minions, it seemed only natural to name a color after a character for the first time in our history."

And according to Jamie Stevens, Executive Vice President, Global Retail Development, Universal Partnerships and Licensing, "We are thrilled that Pantone's color experts saw market demand for yellow and looked to the Minions, as global pop culture icons, to add to its yellow spectrum."

And now, back to MINIONS AND MONSTERS, in theaters today. It's the third installment in the "Minions" prequel series and the seventh installment overall in the "Despicable Me" franchise. IMDB shared the film's premise, "Follow the Minions in 1920s Hollywood as they search for frightening creatures for their monster movie, partner with a green creature, and save the planet after unleashing monsters."

From a marketing perspective, you might want to munch on some Minions-themed snacks today. Grocery Trade News reported, "Taylor Farms and Crunch Pak have launched a new range of fresh snacks, salads, and vegetable kits inspired by "Minions & Monsters." The products will roll out nationwide across the United States in May, targeting families and children with ready-to-eat, healthier convenience options tied to a major entertainment release. Products include snack trays with apples, caramel dip, pretzels, and popcorn bites as well as ready-to-eat salad bowls, chopped salad kits, and vegetable-based meal kits such as cauliflower and broccoli with cheese mixes, designed for quick preparation at home...For retailers, the combination of fresh food and entertainment branding can increase basket size and attract family shoppers. It also supports category growth by making fresh produce more engaging, particularly for younger consumers. Seasonal tie-ins with film releases can drive short-term sales spikes and in-store traffic."

And if you'd like to wear some themed jewelry while you watch the new film, check out Swarovski's Minions line. According to the brand's website, "Celebrate your love for the Minions and brighten your home with our crystallized collectibles. Faceted with precision and finished with signature details, each figurine is perfect for adding personality to your décor. For the first time, the fun extends beyond decorations. Wear your favorite Minions character with our fun Minion necklaces or playful Minions bracelets. Complete the set with a pair of matching earrings and showcase your love for the Minions."


So, if you see yellow today, to quote Pharrell Williams from "Despicable Me 2," be "HAPPY."


SHARE THIS: Given the worldwide popularity of the #Minions, it seemed only natural to name a color after a character for the first time in our history. ~Leatrice Eiseman of @Pantone #BrandStorytelling #DebbieLaskeysBlog


Image Credits: Illumination and Pantone.


Read more and watch the video: "Minion Yellow: Behind the Scenes"

https://www.pantone.com/articles/case-studies/minion-yellow-behind-the-scenes


Check out the Moose Toys collection for "Minions and Monsters"

https://toybook.com/moose-toys-minions-and-monsters-launch/


Check out the Swarovski Minions line here:

https://www.swarovski.com/en-US/c-swa-root/Categories/f/collection/collection-minions/


Read about and listen to Pharrell's song, "Happy"

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Happy_(Pharrell_Williams_song)