Sunday, June 29, 2008

Names That Are Bad for Business

Storefront with early to mid-20th century sign that reads Harms Pharmacy
Lately I've been enjoying this great old sign, which was uncovered while the building awaits rehabbing. In the case of this long-gone drugstore, however, I can't help but wonder if its name may have contributed to its demise.

Which brings to mind a couple of other unfortunate business names I've run across recently:

Neon Tanning. All I can think of is that you come out glowing orange after a session at this place.

The Amish Wood Shed. I saw this on a small billboard along I-94 in Wisconsin. I understand the implied positive association between Amish and craftsmanship, but the only association I have with "wood shed" is as a place where you go to get a beating. So the mental image I get is of an Amish man getting ready to administer a dozen strokes with a hickory stick.

Maybe "The Amish Wood Shop" would have been a better name.

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