Crumpler offers beer-for-a-bag campaign

Handbag retailer Crumpler Bags is running a beer-for-a-bag campaign to draw customers into its stores in New York.

From June 9-17, customers can bring a six-pack of beer to either of Crumpler Bags' two Manhattan locations and exchange it for a bag.

"It's a great way to build relationships with our customers," said Lindsay Cousley, general manager of Crumpler USA.

A selection of the company's messenger, laptop and photo bags will be offered in exchange for specific varieties and quantities of beer giving customers about a 40 percent discount. One case of Coopers and four Foster's large "oil cans" can be traded for a Barney Rustle Messenger bag, which normally retails at $95, or a Moderate Embarrassment laptop satchel, which normally retails at $80.

The sale has been running for five years across Australia where Crumpler is based. It was introduced to New York last year, when more than 1,000 customers exchanged beer for bags.

On the last day of the sale participants will be invited to a party to sample the collected beer. The remainder will be donated to art, charity and sporting events.

"Last year most of the customers spent about half an hour hanging out in the store during the promotion," Mr. Cousley said. "Beer is a great common denominator."