The US 7-11 convenience store chain adopts the Kwik-E-Mart name and products from the Simpson's TV show: Good business or a new low for American culture?

New low

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by Phil Hill

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Both. The answer to the double question is yes and yes. Of course it's good for business. Everybody from whatever social class, age group or ethnicity loves the Simpsons. So the 7-11 chain is onto a surefire marketing winner. Not only will customers be curious at the new gimmick, they'll also snap up the Homer and Co goodies. At first it might be a bit of a joke, but it's bound to catch on. And it's slightly different - more interesting - than traipsing round WalMart with your trolley.
As for a new low in American culture. Sure it is. Over the years life has become dumbed down. First it was Hollywood heart throbs, more recently it's TV stars who are used to sell us things. We can't resist the passive sell. We've become so lazy we just sit back and have stuff thrown at us without exercising our brain cells. If Gary Cooper smoked a certain type of cigarette, our parents went out and had to but that brand. That trend continues today with acting stars plugging shampoo, clothes and cars. Now a cartoon character who is everything we hate about ourselves is going to help sell groceries and the like. It's a sad reflection on our society that he'll success. But quite funny all the same.

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