Speaking of the current shifting economy, Rose writes that there is “a strong correlation of lipstick sales and the building energy of social change… in the early 2000s, economists coined the term ‘lipstick index’ to describe the phenomenon of increased sales of beauty products during economic downturns… when people are feeling down about the state of the economy, they’re more likely to splurge on small luxuries like lipstick as a pick-me-up… I believe Coco Chanel said it best: ‘If you are sad, add more lipstick and attack!’
She further states that lipstick “is also associated with the spirit of protest and deep-seated social change. In times of political upheaval, lipstick sales have often been seen as a barometer of public opinion… in defiance by women who were told to keep silent and know their place… in a day and age when the decision to revoke a woman’s right to proper health care and body autonomy were supported at the highest levels by quoting a common law case over 400 years old, one could be excused for wondering what right will be swept away next.
“We adult retailers need to remember we are in the fun, natural healthy lifestyle, good times industry and advertise and position our stores and our products as such. After all, we provide the luxury of pleasure,” she writes, adding, “The lipstick index has been used to predict everything from stock market trends to presidential election results. And there’s some evidence to support the idea that people really do spend more on beauty products when the economy is struggling.”
“Understanding the lipstick index can help you make strategic decisions about your product mix and marketing and it can help you have an idea of the pulse of public opinion… I have noticed a decided upswing in oral pleasure simulating toys. I think it’s time to stock up on any products that help encourage safe oral play between partners and pleasure induced by the lips.
“Keep colorful affordable oral pleasure enticements within easy reach around the cash wrap area for quick add-ons and make sure your displays are inviting and clean… I think air pulse technology has come a long way in the past few years and will continue to please customers in new and exciting ways.
“Since my store is in the deep South and we are very affected by a lack of healthcare alternatives I also see a lot of people everyday looking for alternative ways to share intimacy and induce pleasure for each other without risking pregnancy. So I am remerchandising the store to make sure these products are front and center.
“We are in a major transition point in our history but the good news is our products never go out of style. So when the ball starts rolling again and even picks up speed; make sure you are ready to meet the challenge with plenty of enticing inventory and a well trained staff. In the meantime, put on some lipstick and attack!”
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