Walletpop (our sister site) blogger, Geoff Williams recently examined a new marketing strategy undertaken by Staples Inc. (NASDAQ: SPLS). The company wants to make you and your office "fashionable". Unfortunately, it appears that it has hired the wrong marketing firm to handle the task.

I cite as example this one whimsical little marketing blurb from Geoff's blog post. In attempting to get you to purchase fashionable binder clips, Staples has this to say about some retro look clips they have to offer: "It's the look of a bygone era with a decidedly modern flair."

Are they kidding? Does Staples think it's marketing argyle knee socks?

There's a whiff of desperation when a company completely departs from common sense in advertising. Personally, I have no use for toner cartridges which compliment my eyes. If the day ever comes when Staples begins to offer office mail carts with ground effects and spinner rims, I'd say we're just one baby doll lab coat away from seeing Staples close it's doors.

Gary Sattler is a freelance blogger. He does not knowingly have investment interest in the companies mentioned in this blog post

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Inflation: "An increase in the amount of money and credit in relation to the supply of goods and services; An increase of the general price level; An excessive or persistent increase in wages and costs causing a decline in purchasing power."

Recession: "A temporary falling off of business activity during a period when such activity has been generally increasing."

(Source: Websters New World Dictionary, Third College Edition)

Rather than an opinion piece, which is what I generally write, this little snippet is meant more as a discussion generator than a statement of my own economic view. I earnestly invite our readers to weigh in on the matter. Inflation or recession, are we now experiencing either or both?