What’s up, dudes? Attention, Kmart shoppers! Yes, we’re talking all about the home of the blue light special. It’s a Kmart Christmas! Vinnie Brezinsky from Huey and Bax and Nicholas Pepin of Pop Culture Roulette join me live to watch some ‘80s Kmart Christmas commercials!
Synopsis
The store that would become Kmart was founded by SS Kresge after he met Frank Woolworth. Inspired by his stores, Kresge invested in a five-and-dime which did well enough for him to open a store in Detroit. In 1912 he incorporated in Delaware with 85 stores.
In January 1962 he opened the first Kmart, and in 1981, the 2000th Kmart was open.
Subsequently, 1985 saw Kmart convert one of its in-store cafeterias into a Little Caesar’s. Throughout the ‘80s they were the 2nd largest retailer after Sears until 1990 when Walmart passed them.
These commercials show a variety of products from the ‘80s, including phones and clothes. There’s even an ad for Christmas portraits!
Catchy jingles? Check. Cheesy, saccharine messages? Of course. Comic strip shenanigans? Definitely! So wait for a blue light special and enjoy this episode on Kmart Christmas!
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[…] Listen to this episode of Totally Rad Christmas Author: Gerry D / Nicholas Pepin, Vinnie Brezinsky Title: Kmart (w/ Nicholas and Vinnie) […]
Great episode! I’m from Puerto Rico and K-Mart in Puerto Rico released 3 different Christmas CD’s with Puerto Rican Christmas music! They were excellent collections and I think this may have been something to unique to the stores on the island!
That’s awesome! I’ll have to check into it.