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ABOUT THIS BLOG
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This blog will look at the winners and losers in the retail space. Who has the right strategy to capture consumer dollars? It also will look for trends in consumer spending and how that will impact the economy.
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With all the doom and gloom in the market, Neiman Marcus has swept in on its gold-and-diamond-encrusted sleigh just in time with some extravagant holiday-gift ideas to help you take your mind off of that blinking red light that is your retirement account.
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Neiman Marcus A sample of the life-sized Lego sculptures |
"These gifts offer people a great fantasy," says Ginger Reeder, a spokeswoman for Neiman Marcus. "We’ve all got to keep our chin up. We all need a smile."
A quarter of a million dollars will buy that ultimate beer lover in your life an authentic Guinness pub – for the home. This holy grail of brew includes handcrafted Guinness artifacts, a keg-dispensing unit, a one-year supply of Guinness, a VIP trip for two to Dublin with luxury airfare, accommodations and back-pub access to the historic St. James Brewery. Please gift responsibly.
And, for one million dollars, Jack Nicklaus will study the topography and aerial photos of your backyard and make you a customized golf course. When construction is complete, the Golden Bear himself will come by to play the first round with you.
Of course, the question everyone wants to know is: Does anyone really buy this stuff?
"Yes!" Reeder says. The fantasy cars always sell out. This year, it’s a $160,000 NM limited-edition BMW.
And the rest of the stuff?
"Every year, we always sell at least one!" Reeder says.
To see more of these items check out our slideshow or the Neiman Marcus’s 2008 Christmas Book online, which includes photos and videos of more than a dozen fantasy gifts for your favorite billionaire next door.
Questions? Comments?
- Vote and suggest your own, and remember--there's a fine line between a hero and a zero.
- If you are lucky enough to have money and the time, this is a great time to see America, says CNBC's Jane Wells.
- What’s powering your microwave, fridge and computer? Part of it is fuel from Russian nuclear weapons. The NYT reports.
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- With 123 years of history, slogans and commercials, Coca-Cola is the most recognized brand on earth.
- The opening of a virtual pet store in “World of Warcraft” could prove a cash bonanza for Activision-Blizzard.
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