Article

Top 100: 34. Layaway

June 15, 2011

Although the concept still conjures up images of the Great Depression, layaway plans saw a big resurgence during the economic downturn of the 2008 holiday season. Then, as now, merchants gave cash-strapped customers a chance to buy items they otherwise couldn't afford. (Let us pause for a moment to consider that, as recently as the 1980s, credit cards were issued only to those who could actually afford them). Even though our own Great Recession is technically over, the idea of setting items aside until they are paid for seems to have taken root. Until consumers' economic confidence is restored, expect layaway to remain a part of the retail landscape.

Download the complete Top 100.