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SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2009
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 ANALYSIS 
4

Things We Want, and Don't, in Odd Recession

Hard-times staples fall by the wayside

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(Newser) – The current economic crisis is breaking the recessionary mold, Time reports, with American purchases running counter to expectations. A few surprises:

  • Soup isn’t selling. Typically, the cheap, decent food is a recession staple, but health concerns and rising prices may be driving us away from it.
  • Organic food sales are growing. Despite the costs, consumers want to do right by their bodies “perhaps to feel better about themselves,” writes Dan Kadlec.

  • Everybody’s going to the movies. Audiences have climbed 9%. Maybe it’s because a film can be a cheap night out, or maybe the crop of flicks is just good this year.
  • Nail salons are breaking. They’re usually a “recession stalwart”—but this year, revenues have plummeted 25%.
  • Sex isn’t so hot, it seems. Contraceptive sales are down and the birth rate’s flat or down. Could it be too much stress?

A shot from the film
A shot from the film "Up." Movies are doing well this year.   (AP Photo/Disney/Pixar)
Nail salons aren't holding up well in the recession.
Nail salons aren't holding up well in the recession.   (Shutterstock)
Couples seem to be feeling the recession in the bedroom, too.
Couples seem to be feeling the recession in the bedroom, too.   (Shutterstock)
Soup isn't doing as well as might be expected.
Soup isn't doing as well as might be expected.   (Shutterstock)
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4 comments
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EddyTeach
Jul 22, 09 11:32 AM CDT
I don't think the increase in movie audiences can be attributed to the "crop of good flicks this year." So far, save a very few exceptions, movies have been uninspired and downright awful thus far. Reply
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IN RESPONSE:
EddyTeach
Jul 22, 09 11:33 AM CDT
I should clarify-- movies have been uninspired and downright awful compared to last year.
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+3
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Sayyiduna
Jul 22, 09 2:04 PM CDT
I agree, it's more likely that it's a nice night out for about 10 dollars. It also makes a great date but if the statistics are anything to go on you ain't getting lucky afterward.
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+2
IN RESPONSE:
BOMBS_OVER_BAGHDAD
Jul 22, 09 6:42 PM CDT
True. There haven't been too many "inspiring" films this year. But, there has been more comedies targeting younger audiences. As well as the super-hero/action flicks that attract audiences of all ages.
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