Washington Post: A tote bag is the latest must-have product
UC professor says consumers are democratizing status with this humble bag
The latest “it” product that’s captured the public’s attention is a $2.99 tote bag from grocery store chain Trader Joe’s, according to the Washington Post, which turned to a University of Cincinnati professor to explain the phenomenon.
The canvas bags are miniature versions of the store’s standard totes. They’re selling out quickly, and the retailer has placed limits on how many consumers can buy at some of its stores.
While the bags are limited edition, that doesn’t fully explain why they’ve gained so much popularity, said Joshua Clarkson, PhD, the Arthur Beerman Professor of Marketing in UC’s Carl H. Lindner College of Business.
Usually high-priced luxury goods are signs of social status, but Clarkson said this seems to be an example of people democratizing status.
“So it’s almost paradoxical that these are utilitarian goods,” he said. “It has this feel that you are democratizing status in some way. People are taking everyday, relatively accessible items and creating status for them.”
Earlier this year, Clarkson offered perspective on another viral product, Stanley’s tumblers that flew off the shelves at Target stores across the nation.
Featured image at top: Trader Joe’s sign. Photo/ jetcityimage via iStock
Impact Lives Here
The University of Cincinnati is leading public urban universities into a new era of innovation and impact. Our faculty, staff and students are saving lives, changing outcomes and bending the future in our city's direction. Next Lives Here.
Related Stories
Prestigious green and gold accolades highlight UC Earth Day 2021
April 19, 2021
There’s no making light of the ‘Gold’ accolade recently earned by the University of Cincinnati’s Carl H. Lindner College of Business’ new home on campus.
UC’s summer semester offers students short sessions, flexibility
April 12, 2021
Coming into the summertime of 2020, Sumedha Kappagantula was considering ways to make the most her opportunities during what is usually a break from the academic rigor of her traditional school year. As a Biomedical Engineering major in the UC’s College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Kappagantula is minoring in Chemistry and Biological Sciences, taking classes through the College of Arts and Sciences. She thought summer semester would be a great time to get ahead in her coursework, and move her degree forward.
UC garners sustainable, green campus success
April 19, 2021
University of Cincinnati Gold LEED certifications, student-involved energy-efficient programs and climate-friendly green technologies elevate UC to a national award-winning sustainable campus.