James Tenser

Retailer Caters to the Recently Divorced

January 20, 2010

FROM RETAILWIRE:
Lindsay Conway, director of social services in the Presbyterian Church in Northern Ireland, finds it "very bizarre." Debenhams in the U.K. sees it as a social service and an opportunity to drive sales in its stores. Do you see divorce registries taking off in America?      [more...]

I was fascinated by this story when I saw it air a couple days ago. While a divorce is normally nothing to celebrate, I must affirm that exiting a toxic marriage is not a purely negative event.

Debenhams' innovative concept may also tap into a practical need--the divorced partner who is leaving the marital home typically brings a minimum of personal possessions along. Basic tools for living--kitchenware, bedsheets, furniture, small appliances, lava lamps--often need to be acquired. This at a time when many divorcing people are financially strapped and feeling a bit ashamed.

It's been a few years, but I could sure use a new flat screen TV--can I sign up retroactively?