Maximize Your QGQ

You know by now that it’s a good idea to keep a gift shelf stocked with items that will seem thoughtful when you give them, even though you weren’t thinking about the specific recipient when you bought it. They have to be versatile enough for a variety of recipients and occasions. But how do you choose those potential presents? With a quick calculation of their Quality Gift Quotient.

Let’s break down the five factors of QGQ using this Zippy Pop Stovetop Popcorn Popper:

1. It’s not a piece of crap. Whatever the item is, it has to be a reasonably well-made version of it. The Zippy Pop’s glass lid is enough to clear that bar, with the tumbling mechanism to spare. One point to the Zippy Pop.

2. The recipient probably won’t already have one. Microwave popcorn has all but driven stovetop popcorn into oblivion, and chances are even people who still prefer it the old-fashioned way don’t have a nice stovetop popper like this. Another point to the Zippy Pop.

3. The recipient will probably use it. The gift has to produce an outcome that people enjoy without too much hassle. A bowl full of warm popcorn after a few minutes would seem to qualify. Tally up another for the Zippy Pop.

4. It should be fun. Most people could probably use a new furnace filter or some nice coathangers, but where’s the fun in that? If you can’t imagine smiling about it, don’t give it. Not a problem here. If popcorn itself isn’t fun enough, you can also try your own seasonings and flavors - even the failed experiments will be memorable. And you can use it to roast coffee! The Zippy Pop scores a fun point easily.

5. It should be non-seasonal. Not tied to Christmas or summertime. Not too specific to any age, interest, personality type, or level of physical activity. The Zippy Pop is a gift for all seasons, and all occasions: housewarming, birthdays, graduations… maybe not a baby shower. But still, good enough for a point.

There you have it: a perfect QGQ of five for the Zippy Pop. Buy one, or a couple, or a few, and never be caught unprepared. And who knows? If word spreads about the Zippy Pop’s QGQ, you might even get one yourself.