An article that appeared in USA Today the other day reported that there has been an upward surge in condom sales in the fourth quarter of 2008, up 5% from the same quarter of the previous year. And what’s more, sales increased last month, January 2009, with a healthy 6% increase over the same month in 2008. What are my thoughts about this? Well, if you’ve been reading this blog for awhile you probably already concluded that I’m overjoyed by this news. More people are buying condoms, so the assumption is that more and more people must be using them. Excellent! This method of contraception is a strong one in that helps to prevent the spread of sexually transmitted diseases and it also helps cut the risk of pregnancy, unwanted or not.
This up tick in sales of condoms is actually a refreshing bit of news considering the bleak economic conditions we’re in right now. Seems that everything you read or hear has to do with poor performing companies with low sales and revenue leading to job cuts. But the condom business is booming! It appears to be a robust recession-proof business.
There are a couple of reasons why condom sales are on the rise, while car sales and designer clothes and many other industries are seeing their sale tank. One is nesting. Instead of going out, people are staying home more, finding ways to entertain themselves while staying in. I heard a report a few days ago that said “Staying in is the new going out.” People are spending less because of the economic recession, so they stay in. One way they are “keeping busy” is by getting it done between the sheets. So in come the condoms. Condoms offer a safe and healthy way to be entertained and have fun.
Another major reason for increased condom sales is that in families are looking to stretch their dollars more and more, and the prospect of bringing another mouth to feed, so to speak, into the family is something they want to avoid right now in these tough tight times. A couple having some sexual fun together do not want to face the possibility of an unwanted pregnancy, so they reach for condoms to help reduce that chance.
So there you have it. More people staying home, looking for fun and entertainment, and wanting to avoid making another baby all combine to strengthen the condom business. It’s a good thing. Here’s the USA Today article.
And of course, on this Valentine’s Day, don’t be dumb; be smart and sweet with your lover. Before you celebrate the day in your own special intimate way, be sure to buy and use condoms. Enjoy and have fun out there!
