Don't Call It a Comeback

"Put that on layaway, please." No, you didn't just overhear a conversation from 1983--layaway is actually back in retail action. The last time I encountered layaway, my mother was placing all four of my sisters' school clothes on layaway at J.C. Penney. And let me tell you, that was awhile ago.

But with the recent economic panic, retailers are pulling out all the stops--coupons galore, special promotions filled with a plethora of exclamation points and...er...layaway.

This is quite the stretch. And if we're going to bring layaway back, we might as well reintroduce leg warmers. In hot pink.

Sears and Kmart are leading the way in bringing this dinosaur of a retail program back. In fact, Sears hasn't had an active layaway program for more than 20 years. Until now.

For those too young to remember (or those of us suffering from poor memories), layaway allows consumers to pay a small fee along with a minimum payment to secure their purchase. They then have a specific period of time to pay off the item without accruing interest. At Kmart, customers have eight weeks to pay off the item of their choice without interest. Once the item is paid off, customers then receive their purchase.

According to recent reports, popular layaway items include consumer electronics, video game equipment--like the Wii, lawn mowers and other big ticket items. After giving it some thought, layaway just might be a better option than plopping purchases on credit cards, especially with exorbitant interest rates. I might be able to hop on this train after all.

But, not just yet. The most perplexing part of this shift is that statistically it's not supported. A recent survey by the National Retail Federation found that consumers plan on spending $832, on average, for holiday shopping, which is an increase of 1.9 percent from last year.

Looks like retailers and consumers alike may fair far better than anyone is currently imagining. In the meantime, I'm going to pick up a lawn mower, tires and a new wardrobe and put it all on layaway at Sears. How about you?

Do you remember layaway? What do you think about the comeback? Leave your thoughts here!

--Heather Strang

Skyscraper shoes--the sky is the limit

While the stock market is going down, we girls are kicking up our heels--high heels that is. Have you taken a good look at the shoes in specialty stores lately? Those high-heels just keep getting higher and higher. There is an old saying about hems go up in good times and down in bad, but Diva is not sure about footwear. But as stocks are falling, designers are taking women’s shoes to heights never seen before. As article in The Wall Street Journal says skyscraper shoes are in. While in the past, 3- or 4-in. heels were the norm; now designers are pumping out heels up to 7 in.--from Steve Madden to high-end designers, like Louboutin. The article quoted the fashion director for New York-based retail consultancy Donegar Group as saying: "These are the highest heels that I’ve ever seen sold on a commercial level.” Louboutin says that he plans to aim for higher territory--8-in. heels--next season. (Will he also hand out altitude sickness pills?)

Above 4-in. heels, the air gets too rarified for Diva--and she cares more about protecting her leg bones from disastrous falls. Several models took nosedives at the recent Prada show, tripping over their 7-in. heels, tottering and then crashing to the floor (not a pretty sight). Reportedly, some models were so scared of the fancy footwear--and rightly so--that they were crying backstage.

Even stranger, the WSJ article tells of women who are having injections of Juvederm cosmetic filler to plump up the balls of their feet, to enable them to walk better in the tall heels (now that is truly sick!). It’s one thing to pay out the ying-yang for facial injections, but Botox for feet is simply too decadent for Diva.

So if you follow fashion dictates and go around tottering on those skyscraper high-heels, Diva says--be sure your medical insurance is up to date, or the fashion accessory of the moment could be a pair of crutches.

Check out this YouTube video to see how ridiculous women look, walking in sky-high heels.

--Diva

When the Secret Makes the Brand

A lair filled with vials of mystical herb concoctions. Musty, verdant smells wafting through the air. Special passwords needed to enter this mystical storeroom of secrets, as well as the combinations to intimidating giant padlocks. Is this a scene from a Harry Potter movie?

No, it’s just the extremes that KFC goes to in order to protect its special recipe of 11 herbs and spices, originally devised by Colonel Harland Sanders, the company’s founder. The original recipe was handwritten by Sanders, in 1940, on a sheet of paper that is now yellowed by age [he started the company in the '50s]. In order to update the security at its headquarters for storage of the treasured proprietary document--the key to its business success--the company had to temporarily remove the document. KFC USA President Roger Eaton presided over a special ceremony to commemorate the recipe’s removal, and bodyguards were hired to accompany the document to a safe place.

According to an Associated Press article published in the Houston Chronicle, KFC goes to great lengths to keep the recipe safe. Ingredients are ordered from separate suppliers, so no outsider is aware of everything that goes into the coating for the famous fried chicken, which gives it its unique, appealing flavor. Only two company officials at a time are allowed access to the document--and their names are also a secret. (Actually, the recipe was locked in a cabinet, protected by three locks, and the cabinet itself was locked inside a vault. Vials of the herbs and spices were stored with the recipe.)

Over the years, many people have tried to come up with a recipe of their own that matches the Colonel’s, but according to the company, few even come close. And why bother, when it is so convenient to pick up a bucket of chicken at KFC? Like the secret Coca-Cola recipe, the secret of the Colonel’s fried chicken is one of the food industry's top brand-equity propositions. After all, one good recipe can be worth a million bucks [actually KFC USA sales were $5.3 billion last year].

KFC is developing a new, original chicken strip menu item--so perhaps they are referencing the Colonel’s original notes for some new ideas. Let’s all get ready for some finger-licking good eating. And hey, guys, take care of that brand secret. It’s a national treasure.

--Diva

3G Sends Consumers into a Multitasking Frenzy

It was a sound heard across the world, as iPhone 3Gs hit the marketplace on July 11th with a loud bang. Consumers, who couldn't wait to download, surf the Web and respond to emails at lightening speeds, stampeded into stores demanding the new 3G.

Stores sold out of phones left and right, while iTunes software jammed and customers experienced difficulties using the phones right away. Overall, though, it was a good day for iPhones, as Apple sold a reported 1 million 3Gs during opening weekend in 21 countries.

"iPhone 3G had a stunning opening weekend," said Steve Jobs, CEO of Apple. "It took 74 days to sell the first one million original iPhones, so the new iPhone 3G is clearly off to a great start around the world."

Those are certainly the kinds of sales statistics that retailers salivate for. But, what's the key to the iPhone phenomena? If you ask this blogger-it's all about one thing: hype. Never before in retail history has a product been so hyped, unless, of course, you count all of the Y2K products sold in 1999. The Web site brings my point home (bravo to the copywriters!), using seductive terminology such as:
 
-"do more in more places"
-"mobile multitasking"
-"simultaneous data and voice"
-"anywhere on the planet"
-"compact device"
-"clever iPhone engineering"
-"intelligent iPhone power management technology"
-"revolutionary phone"
-"rich HTML e-mail"
-"desktop-class Web browser"*

Techies and phone nuts everywhere go into purchasing overload upon reading such jargon. Notice the use of words such as "clever," "intelligent" and "rich." Aren't those all the things that iPhone customers aspire to be? $199-$299 isn't such a steep price to pay for a phone if you also get a self-esteem boost.

Nice work, Apple, you've definitely proven yourself to be the smartest computer and phone company in the world. Even I (who currently sports a basic Motorola LG phone), felt myself tempted to purchase such a sleek and well-marketed product. But, I changed my mind when I realized that there was no way I wanted to e-mail, text and surf the Web while having a conversation with a good friend at Starbucks. There's zero reason for me to ever multitask that much. Call me a simpleton, but there you have it.

However, the message to retailers comes through loud and clear. Don't be afraid to hype your products and services. Let your customers know they'll be happier, more intelligent and achieve greater life satisfaction by purchasing your product. And who knows, with the right marketing (and writers) you just may be right.

So, what are your thoughts about the new iPhone? Hype or truth? Marketing or technology genius, or both? Leave your comments here!

--Heather Strang

*See Apple Web site.

 

Home Furnishings in Discount & Apparel Land

What's the last product line you'd expect to see from a discount retailer and an apparel department store? Well, you probably wouldn't expect fine artwork, furniture or greenhouses. But Wal-Mart and J.C. Penney had something else in mind when they both recently launched their new, contemporary furniture lines--Canopy and Linden Street, respectively. I bet you're glad I didn't say greenhouse line, eh?
 

Wal-Mart even launched a Canopy-specific Web site (that looks very Pottery Barn-ish, if I don't say so myself) promoting free shipping for all items delivered directly to Wal-Mart. To me, Wal-Mart with a contemporary furniture line feels a bit...odd. What happened to $3 mascara and hunting equipment??! J.C. Penney's new collection seems more in line with the brand, as they've carried upscale home decor items for some time now.

But, the real question is, why are perfectly successful retailers expanding into furniture territory during the summer of 2008? Perhaps they want a piece of the Ikea pie (but really--who can be as good or as Swedish as Ikea?). Or maybe they thought the Pottery Barn could use some new competition.

A recent article in the Dallas Morning News states that Americans are consistently looking for lower priced furniture and are drawn to a more casual style. Well, duh. Cheap and casual? That is American, for crying out loud! Wal-Mart and J.C. Penney hope to cash in on both. In addition, the retailers are reportedly seeking to lure in younger households who typically live in smaller homes and crave more functional (i.e. easily assembled) furniture.

I'm all for cross-shopping, so the thought of purchasing my mascara, a new bedroom set and Cheetos all at one place is pretty attractive. Kroger Co.'s Fred Meyer store has been doing this for a long time, although not at the low, low prices that Wal-Mart offers. So, while the new lines aren't exactly ground-breaking, they are worth taking a look at.

What do you think about the two retailers adding contemporary home furnishings to their product offerings? Smart idea during this time of year, or a great way to wrangle in new customers? Tell us all about it here!

--Heather Strang

Macy's Makes History With the Help of Rolling Stone

Rolling Stone magazine is cool. You know it, I know it--everyone knows it. Everyone including mega-retailer Macy's. So, it's no surprise that Macy's agreed to feature collectors' edition Rolling Stone cover t-shirts to honor the magazine's 40th birthday.

Before this historic partnership, some, in fact, might have dared to call Macy's "cool." Not as cool as Rolling Stone, of course, but certainly no schmuck either. Macy's is known for its celebrity hook-ups featuring everyone from Jessica Simpson to Martha Stewart to Usher and Mariah Carey. But, even for a hip retailer like Macy's, these collector's edition tees are incredibly cool.

T-shirts include covers from the following totally awesome (to use a term spanning from the '70s to today) Rolling Stone issues:

-The Beatles, Nov. 15, 1969
-Jimi Hendrix, April 1, 1999
-Metallica, Nov. 14, 1991
-Kid Rock, June 22, 2000
-Jim Morrison, Aug. 5, 1971
-Johnny Cash, Oct. 16, 2003
-Ozzy Osbourne, July 25, 2002
-Kurt Cobain, June 2, 1994
-Dr. Dre & Snoop Dogg, Sept. 30, 1993 (my personal fave!)
-The Beastie Boys, Jan. 21, 1999
-Jerry Garcia, Aug. 8, 1996

Despite the "collector" factor, T-shirts only cost $36. And they come with a certificate for a one-year subscription to Rolling Stone.

“Rolling Stone magazine is an iconic and revolutionary brand, and its covers are among some of the country’s most memorable and culturally-charged images,” said Jerry Balest, Macy’s vice president of Men’s Fashion. 

Okay Macy's, that's great. But, there is one problem with this super cool concept.

The t-shirts seem to be for men only. There are no female-cut styles, and while they're not listed as only for "men" online or in the company's press release, there are only three sizes available in the boxy male style. Perhaps Rolling Stone is only interested in increasing its male readership? While that might make sense for their demographic, it doesn't make sense for Macy's. In fact, I find the slightly sexist oversight a bit perturbing. There's money to be made from the ladies Macy's!

It's too bad that Macy's and Rolling Stone magazine didn't think this through because it's probably the only time I would have dropped $36 for a t-shirt. I mean, really--that's a little much. But, for a memento from a 1969 Rolling Stone magazine cover I would actually do it.

What do you think ladies--are you bummed about being left out or do you think it's best just for the boys anyway? What do you think of the Macy's and Rolling Stone partnership? Too cool for Macy's? Leave your thoughts here.

--Heather Strang

Steve & Barry's Gets "Carried" Away

Carrie. Charlotte. Miranda. Samantha. Have any idea who these ladies are? If you've turned on your television lately or flipped through a fashion magazine, you most likely do. And with the upcoming release of the "Sex & The City" movie, it's officially SATC mania. It's also a perfect opportunity for a retailer to get in on the action.

To aid in the hysteria, Steve & Barry stores have created licensed and official movie apparel, including t-shirts and tank tops featuring clever verbiage such as, "I'm with Mr. Big" (I wish!) or "I Heart Sex & The City." To make things even more enticing, the tees are only $8.98 or less!

I've never been to Steve & Barry's before, and until Sarah Jessica Parker started her Bitten line, I had never even heard of them. However, as a huge Sex & the City fan--I practically kissed my cable guy when he said, "Oh, so you're like a real-life Carrie Bradshaw," when learning that I was a freelance writer--I'm going to drive 45 minutes out of my way to get my hands on this merchandise...to wear to the opening night of the movie. I know this is mildly ridiculous behavior, but I can't help it. Some people like Star Trek and Spiderman; I love Carrie Bradshaw and Sex & The City.

But this also provides us with an amazing example of why retailers should continue to partner with cultural icons like SJP. Think about it, I'm going to pay nearly $4 a gallon to drive 45 minutes out of my way just to get my very own SATC tee. I won't even drive to happy hour these days! And you better believe that while I'm there, I'll also take care of my other shopping needs, including buying every SJP Bitten item I can get my hands on. 

So, thank you Steve & Barry's. If you're good enough for SJP and the other gals of Sex & the City, then you're good enough for me.

Have you already snagged some SATC gear? Love Steve & Barry's? Tell us about it here! Oh, and if you just want to gush about the movie, SJP or one of the other actress' obvious plastic surgery, leave a comment here as well.

--Heather Strang

P.S. Be sure to check out the SATC Soundtrack, including India Arie's version of "The Heart of the Matter." Love it!

 

So Bright You Gotta Wear Shades

We knew aviator sunglasses weren't going anywhere anytime soon when celebrities the likes of Britney Spears, Paris Hilton and the Olsen twins made them part of their staple fashion mainstays. Why not bring the ubercool sun-blockers indoors? Introducing the "Celebrity Lamp" from Deeply Madly Living. The lamp shade is made of 40 pairs of mirrored aviator sunglasses on a linear stand, accented with a playful eyeglass-temple light switch. When the light is on, the lamp casts a kaleidoscope of shadows on surrounding walls. Cool.

Think no one will go for the $1,600 price tag? Think again. The lamp is currently on backorder...most likely due to high demand from the "Top Gun" fan club. Anyone feel the need for speed?

--Alison Embrey Medina

Hair Gel, Concealer and Facials--Oh My!

Back in the olden days (you know, around 2000), it simply wasn't kosher for a man to openly buy grooming products, such as hair gel and moisturizer, much less receive facials, wear concealer and highlight his hair. But, eight years later, it's a whole new world. Male-centric products are steadily becoming a huge segment of the market.

Packaged Facts, a reporting agency that tracks men's personal care products, forecasts $6 billion in sales for 2008 in men's products, particularly in the strongest growing demographic--men 12-24 years of age. Twelve-year-old boys are applying moisturizer and hair gel? Yep, it's happening. And in record numbers. It's not just women buying the products for their men either (although there's plenty of that still happening). CVS market research indicates that 41 percent of men are purchasing beauty and grooming products on their own. Way to go guys!

Male grooming, while once looked down upon, is surging full speed ahead. They're getting pedicures and manicures, regularly visiting spas and taking advantage of grooming products geared just for them. Nivea is launching a male line and Clinque, Aveda and Kiehls already offer exclusively male products.

And why not? While some men feel this shift is simply added pressure to look good, it's something we as women have been dealing with for thousands of years. I love that the boys are joining us at the salon, at the beauty counter and in the makeup aisle (okay, maybe wearing concealer is going a bit too far!). But, any way you slice it, it's another big opportunity for retailers to cash in on a growing trend--men's beauty department, anyone? You've got to love that.

What do you think of the new trend? Love it? Hate it? Is it about time?
Leave your comments here.

--Heather Strang

Move Over Maury

Move over Maury Povich, because here comes Rite Aid! That's right, I said Maury Povich, as in "The Maury Show"--a daytime talkshow infamous for its paternity test results shows (don't pretend you don't know what I'm talking about, especially if you've recently been home sick "watching" afternoon TV as you drift in and out of a cold medicine haze). Well Maury is about to lose a boatload of guests--who are all going to be headed to an aisle in their local Rite Aid drugstore instead of on stage and on camera. According to a press release from DNA-tester Identigene, Rite Aid started carrying its paternity test kits on March 25. Oh, and apparently Meijer will offer them, too.

Whatever will Maury do? (Other than quickly search for a new schtick to add to his smorgasbord of rotating segments, some of which include freakish diseases, out-of-control teens and, of course, people with bizarre phobias, such as a deathly fear of peaches or cotton balls. Oh, and don't forget my personal favorite, the Man or Woman? episodes, where the audience guesses if the guests are, in Maury's words, "Hot Spring Bunnies or Men Dressed as Honeys." The best part is when they show reaction shots of audience members who guessed wrong, like the guy in the front row who vehemently declared, "Now Maury, that's a woman." Only it wasn't.)

But I disgress...

Identigene, a self-described "leader in DNA identification testing," says its DNA Paternity Test Collection Kit was the first DNA test ever sold in retail stores when it was offered on a trial basis beginning November 2007 in California, Washington and Oregon. I'm guessing tests (pun intended) went well, because now the DNA Paternity Test Collection Kit is available for over-the-counter purchase at all Rite Aid drugstores throughout the United States, with the exception of stores in New York state (so there are some sane ones left, huh?).

Here's how it works, according to the press release: "With an Identigene DNA Paternity Test Collection Kit, participants of the test collect a DNA sample by rubbing a swab inside their mouth. The samples, along with consent forms and a lab fee are sent in an enclosed postage-paid return envelope to Identigene for processing. Results are available from Identigene within three to five business days of receipt. Customers can choose to receive results by mail, email, or online through a secured Web service. All information remains strictly confidential."

Suggested retail price for an Identigene DNA Paternity Test Collection Kit--$29.99. Laboratory processing fee--$119. Knowing who the baby daddy is--priceless.

--Jessie Bove

Photo: Click the photo to see this guest's victory dance once he discovers that he is NOT the father! I guess the 11th time isn't the charm after all.