The economic downturn and great recession decreased consumers’ disposable income, made consumer borrowing more difficult and soured public opinion against borrowing and amassing credit card debt. Combating this downward trend in purchasing power and desire, innovative retailers have revived an American retail tradition, the layaway sale. Layaway sales allow buyers to “reserve” certain items or services in exchange for a down payment and the promise to make subsequent, regular installment payments. When the client pays the full purchase amount agreed to by the merchant, the merchant delivers the reserved item to the client and the transaction is complete.