In a twist that sounds like a plot straight out of a Hollywood heist movie, the stolen promotional vehicle known as "Fast Meat," used by snack brand Slim Jim, was found in a Chicago suburb. According to reports by Chicago Sun-Times, the car, a custom Nissan Z wrapped in red and yellow graphics, was discovered atop a transportation trailer on December 22 in Hillside, after being stolen from the Los Angeles area on December 13.
The vehicle was reportedly transported to Florida for a World Wrestling Entertainment video shoot before vanishing, and despite the distinctive wrap partially removed when police uncovered it, the car's flashy yellow leather interior remained untouched, CBS Chicago reported, valued at about $115,000, the car turned up thanks to a vigilant social media campaign using the hashtag #findfastmeat.
Earlier attempts to locate the stolen vehicle included Conagra, the parent company of Slim Jim, sharing a redacted portion of a police report to counteract the rumors claiming the theft was simply a publicity stunt. In light of the car's disappearance, officials had already begun working on a new custom car and sought fan input on its design via social media as mentioned by a spokesperson in statements acquired by the Chicago Sun-Times.
Despite the ordeal, it seems the iconic "Fast Meat" car will not be retired, with the company asking fans to cast their votes for the new custom vehicle's design, illustrating the power of the community, social media, and probably a bit of luck in putting the brakes on this auto escapade, as well as securing a unique tale of recovery for their marketing annals.
