Who Holds The Purse?
By George Anderson
British retailer, Marks & Spencer, has created a play area in six of its stores in the U.K. for boys of the adult variety.
The “Men’s Creche” as it is called is designed to keep English lads happy while their significant other is off shopping in the store. The area includes large brown leather sofas, football on the tele, free candy and remote control toys and other stuff to keep men busy.
Derek Patterson, a 61-year-old window cleaner from Lincolnshire visiting a Marks & Spencer in London told the Associated Press, “We’ve got six hours of free time, so they’ve all gone shopping, but I really can’t stick it.”
Mr. Patterson said this particular trip was the most fun he’s ever had when tagging along with his wife while she shopped. “Men are more focused on what they’re getting, and the sooner it’s done, the better. Whereas women float around forever.”
Arindam Thakur, 31, said 30 minutes was as long as he could go shopping without getting antsy. Mr. Thakur said he found the time spent in the Men’s Creche “very satisfying.”
Female shoppers like it, too. “I think it’s a great idea,” said 26-year-old Rachel Glen. “But they should put the creche nearer to the women’s wear.”
Moderator’s Comment: What do you think about Marks & Spencer’s Men’s Creche area? Will it bring more couples into the store to shop?
The biggest question we have that wasn’t answered in the AP piece was are the men carrying their wives’ purses with them to the Creche or does going there
mean they no longer have to handle this important duty while shopping with their better half? –
George Anderson – Moderator