in shrinkage we trust

12 of the Worst Product Recalls Ever

October 20, 2009

“We all make mistakes.” “Nobody’s perfect.” “He/she’s only human.”

All of these sayings reflect how common it is for our plans not to work out. Nowhere is this more true than when it comes to product recalls. While plenty of products have turned out to be mediocre or inferior, some have malfunctioned so severely that catastrophe and disaster ensued. Consumer deaths, CEO resignations and mind-blowing financial losses are just some of the consequences of these 12 poorly manufactured (and ultimately recalled) products.

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10 Behaviors that the Recession Made More Acceptable

September 1, 2009

Historically, recessions always vindicate the frugal. Dismissed as penny-pinchers during prosperous times, economic despair makes frugality the center of media stories and casts it in a newly positive light. Whether it’s brown bagging, dumpster diving or even gardening, these previously “weird” behaviors suddenly come into vogue, serving as models for the rest of us to emulate. Our current downturn is no different, and today we will examine 10 behaviors that the recession has made more palatable to the consumer mainstream.

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The Guerrilla Guide to Cheap (and Sometimes Free) Eats

March 10, 2009


There is no shortage of cost saving tips these days. They mostly focus on simple ways that consumers can reduce costs by cutting out the purchase of things that are not absolutely necessary. But for those who still like to eat out, those who have busy lives’ that dictate their eating on-the-go, or for those who are currently really feeling the strain of the current financial situation, there are alternatives. There are ways to cut down or, in some cases, eliminate food costs while not cooking every single meal at home. Of course, some examples require a bit more creativity, or even some pride-swallowing. In any event, these should be considered fun ways to save money, and for those really in a bind, they can actually be quite useful. This is the guerrilla guide to cheap (and sometimes free) eats.

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