As Valentine’s Day approaches, a popular hard cider brand is offering a unique twist on the traditional celebrations. Angry Orchard has introduced its innovative Ex-Change programme, inviting customers to transform their exes’ forgotten items into cash. With a deadline for registration set for February 20, this initiative is turning the heartbreak of past relationships into a chance for a refreshing payout.
A Creative Cash-for-Items Initiative
In a bold move, Angry Orchard has launched its Ex-Change programme, allowing participants to send in unreturned belongings from former partners in exchange for money. The programme is straightforward: interested customers can sign up for a complimentary Ex-Change Kit, which includes packing materials and a prepaid shipping label for easy returns. Once received, the items will be sorted, with some potentially being donated to charity.
What should you dig out of your closet? Angry Orchard suggests sending in that ill-fitting hoodie, an old vinyl collection gathering dust, or even that questionable poster that has long been an eyesore. The brand’s initiative aims to provide a light-hearted outlet for those feeling the weight of past relationships.
Valentine’s Day: A Shift in Perspective
Valentine’s Day can often evoke mixed emotions, and Angry Orchard is keen to help its customers find joy amidst the frustration. Matt Withington, senior director of marketing for the brand, expressed, “Valentine’s Day has a way of stirring up plenty of frustrations, and at Angry Orchard, we love helping our drinkers find the fun in all of it.” With this programme, the aim is to encourage fans to swap their breakup baggage for something far more enjoyable: a well-stocked cider fridge.
This initiative comes on the heels of a revealing survey by dining reservation platform OpenTable, which indicates a cultural shift regarding the holiday. According to their findings, 58% of Americans now view Valentine’s Day as an inclusive celebration, extending beyond romantic relationships. A significant 70% of Gen Z respondents believe the day should celebrate all kinds of relationships, not just those defined by romance.
The Rise of Inclusive Celebrations
OpenTable’s survey also highlights the growing popularity of alternative celebrations, such as “Galentine’s Day” on February 13, where women gather to celebrate their friendships. Last year saw a 34% increase in restaurant reservations for this occasion. Meanwhile, “Palentine’s Day,” a term coined for celebrating the day with friends rather than partners, has also gained traction, with many Gen Z individuals planning group outings instead of traditional romantic dinners.
Cheryl Paniagua, the vice president for restaurant sales and services at OpenTable, noted the role of Gen Z in driving this change, stating, “Gen Z is leading the charge in making Valentine’s Day more inclusive.” This shift in perspective is reshaping how the holiday is celebrated, making it a time for all types of love and connection.
Why it Matters
The Angry Orchard Ex-Change programme not only offers a creative way to declutter and potentially earn some cash but also reflects a broader cultural trend towards inclusivity on Valentine’s Day. As society evolves, so too does our understanding of love and relationships, moving beyond traditional confines to embrace a more diverse spectrum of connections. This shift, championed by younger generations, signifies a future where every kind of relationship is celebrated, paving the way for a more inclusive holiday season.
