So I have been having a few techinical difficulties with the internet around here but hopefully it will be constant from now on...if not I will post thigns in bulk whenever the connection decides to cooperate...
I forgot that Europe doesn’t buy into the Super-Size factor that floats corporate monstrosities like Wal-Mart and Costco, so when I went to buy some shampoo I think 3.50€ is a fair price for Pantene b/c that’s close to what I normally pay…but then I realize that I’m getting abt half the quantity…I guess I can almost buy into the better bang for your buck psychology that runs our society…
I have two opinions on this matter --
1. I need all the ignoramamus’ of our country to go to Europe (France preferred, obviously) to buy some shampoo so they can really appreciate what we offer in terms of more for less, instead of condemning our indulgent ways.
2. People need to use some discretion on what they make big (the Golden Arches come to mind and every other place that gets blamed for driving our bodies to obesity). Some things, yes, please give me bulk (Nutella - remember the jar I bought in Italy mom?, Extra bubble gum, tissues, shampoo/conditioner, etc ) but make them essentials…
Now the only problem is who is to decide what is necessary to deem bulk-worthy? Me? You? Big Brother? Marvin the Martian? Ah, zut alors!!
Semi-Side note: The dad explained to me more abt what he does (the 1st real conversation I’ve had with him which lasted about 2 mins….yesssss breaking records here people) and he finances digital equipment for theaters/films…pretty cool…he has connections with people at Fox, Disney, etc and flies to Los Angeles fairly often -- hmmm maybe ill become a movie star J -- anyway he is the only company of his kind in France and one of three in Europe
Ok the interesting part: I asked him why there is no other competition (it was at that moment that I realized I am an economist at heart…eeek) b/c going through my head was how does this dude have a monopoly on such a lucrative market?
His first response was b/c no one believed that the direction the world was going in was digital…so Mr. Mizrahi broke the ice 3 years ago and now has enough money to pay some quack like me to watch their kids …isn’t life grand?
Anyway he started his company 3 yrs ago when everyone thought he was crazy (memories of leadership are tumbling back) b/c he saw what was happening with the industry over here - I guess I should say over there, where ya’ll are…
Then I asked if people believed him now and he said yea and that he has the only business b/c the government has its hand in everything so it has been hard for people to compete…its not really a free market --- well damn that was smack in the face with global reality…how I have taken for granted being able to start any business whether it be something as stupid as a Sham Wow (totally had to get my Billy Mays tribute in there) or grandiose as the companies that feed the fuel for our obsession with bulk quantities and bargains.
PS - Be proud mom - I bought the Pantene on sale and saved 2€
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