A survey by WalletHub reveals that nearly 3 in 4 people believe tipping culture has become excessive, with many feeling that businesses are relying on tips to replace employee salaries. The survey also indicates that 78% of respondents think automatic service charges should be banned, and half of them feel pressured to leave tips. Experts warn of potential negative outcomes if this trend continues, while recent stats show a growing fatigue with tipping requests. Calls for businesses to increase wages and a new law in California aiming to raise the minimum wage for fast food workers highlight the ongoing debate around tipping and fair compensation.
Trader Joe's canvas mini tote bags, originally priced at $2.99, have gone viral on social media and are being resold online for as much as $500. The bags, available in various colors, have sparked a buying frenzy, with some customers reselling them on platforms like eBay and Facebook Marketplace. Store employees have reported limits being placed on purchases, and some believe the bags were a limited production. The craze is reminiscent of previous viral retail moments, such as the chaos surrounding Target's limited-edition Stanley tumblers.
Temu, a Chinese-owned e-commerce app, has seen a surge in popularity, particularly among older generations, with boomers and Gen Xers shopping more frequently and spending more than younger people. The app's diverse product mix and discounts appeal to more mature shoppers, while some speculate that older individuals may be less sophisticated internet shoppers and are drawn to Temu's gamified discounting. The reasons behind boomers' high engagement with Temu could also be attributed to having more space and disposable income, but the exact motivations remain unclear.
Stanley tumblers, specifically the limited-edition Starbucks x Stanley Quencher, have gone viral, causing chaos at Target stores with some items being resold for over $100 on eBay. The brand, which celebrated its 110th anniversary last year, has seen a resurgence in popularity due to social media influence and strategic marketing, including a focus on female consumers. Despite the aim for sustainability, some fans collect the tumblers without using them. Stanley's annual sales are projected to top $750 million in 2023, a significant increase from $73 million in 2019.
The release of a limited edition pink Stanley cup by Starbucks has led to chaos at Target stores, with customers lining up overnight and incidents of violence reported. The cup, priced at $49.95, is being resold for up to $299.99 on eBay. This is the third Starbucks x Stanley collaboration, and the cup's popularity has surged due to strategic marketing towards women and the Instagram generation, transforming it into a fashion statement. Despite the frenzy, Starbucks has confirmed that the cup will not be restocked, further fueling the demand.
Target's limited-edition Valentine's Day collection of Stanley tumblers, featuring oversized rose-hued stainless steel insulated cups, has caused a shopping frenzy, with items selling out quickly. The collection, which included a 40-ounce mug and smaller tumblers with Valentine's messaging, was launched on December 31 and will not be restocked, although future collaborations are expected in 2024. The Stanley brand has seen a resurgence in popularity, especially among younger consumers, due to the functionality and design of their products, such as the Quencher cup that fits in vehicle cup holders and maintains temperature for extended periods.
The release of limited edition Stanley cups in Valentine's Day colors has caused a shopping frenzy at Starbucks and Target stores nationwide, with the items selling out quickly and appearing on resale sites at inflated prices. Long lines and viral social media moments underscore the demand for these trendy water bottles, which have seen a resurgence in popularity, particularly among Gen Z, thanks to social media. Despite the chaotic launch and the prediction of fading trends, Stanley's significant revenue growth indicates a strong market presence, with the company focusing on innovation to keep up with consumer interest.
