No cash? No problem at Blu Dot Swap Meet

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Inspired by a London supermarket that recently began offering a discount to customers who volunteered in the store, furniture maker Blu Dot launched a barter-based swap meet on Monday.

The company is fielding offers of ‘creative currency’ for modern chairs, ottomans, tables, desks, shelves and sofas. Here’s how it works: Choose the Blu Dot item that you want. Next, come up with your offer and upload it to Blu Dot’s Swap Meet site. Offers so far have included 30 pounds of brisket, custom handmade jeans, chocolatiering lessons, hand-knitted mittens and an ‘insult-a-gram.’

Customers then check on the status of their bids through March 11. Blu Dot may agree to a swap or ask you to up the ante. If your bid is successful, you will be notified by e-mail. Rules stipulate: No minors, and only one bid per piece of furniture.

-- Lisa Boone

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