A new dating trend in Spain is capturing attention: singles are placing upside-down pineapples in their shopping carts at the supermarket chain Mercadona between 7 pm and 8 pm. This peculiar ritual is intended as a signal to others that they are seeking romance, not just grocery items. The trend has gained substantial traction on social media, notably on TikTok, where a video showcasing this practice has amassed millions of views.
The pineapple symbol is associated with the swingers community, though in this context, it signifies an interest in finding a romantic connection. The trend has even inspired Lidl to introduce a similar campaign with watermelons. Despite its playful nature, the phenomenon has led to some disruptions, including rowdy behaviour and police involvement in certain locations.
The Good
- Social Engagement: This trend has created a unique way for individuals to meet potential partners, adding an element of fun and creativity to the dating scene.
- Increased Foot Traffic: The trend has boosted business for Mercadona and Lidl, as shoppers flock to these stores in hopes of participating in the dating ritual.
- Viral Marketing: Mercadona’s involvement in the trend through social media has generated positive publicity, enhancing brand engagement and visibility.
- Cultural Exchange: The trend highlights the innovative ways people adapt cultural symbols to modern dating practices, fostering a sense of community and shared experience among participants.
- Entertainment Value: For those observing from the sidelines, the trend provides amusement and a light-hearted break from everyday routines.
The Bad
- Disruptions in Stores: The trend has led to some negative incidents, such as rowdy behaviour and disruptions in Mercadona stores, requiring police intervention in some cases.
- Public Nuisance: The influx of people participating in the trend has occasionally resulted in inconveniences for regular shoppers, impacting their shopping experience.
- Potential for Misuse: The trend’s playful nature might be misinterpreted or exploited by individuals not genuinely interested in dating, leading to frustration among serious participants.
- Market Saturation: The trend could contribute to a temporary shortage of pineapples or other fruits in stores, affecting supply for other consumers.
- Privacy Concerns: Participants might face privacy issues, as their dating intentions could become publicly known through social media or store interactions.
The Take
In recent weeks, a quirky new dating trend has emerged in Spain, capturing the imagination of singles and social media users alike. The trend involves placing an upside-down pineapple in a shopping cart at Mercadona, a popular supermarket chain, during a specific hour—between 7 pm and 8 pm. This act has become a code for indicating romantic interest rather than a simple grocery list.
The pineapple itself, while commonly associated with the swingers community as a symbol of openness to partner swapping, is being repurposed in this context to signal a desire for romance. The trend has taken off significantly on social media platforms, particularly TikTok, where a video demonstrating the practice has gone viral, amassing nearly 3 million views. Mercadona has joined in on the fun, promoting the trend through its own TikTok account, further fueling its popularity.
Lidl, eager to capitalise on the trend, has launched a similar campaign encouraging shoppers to use watermelons as their fruit of choice for signalling romantic intentions. This playful competition between supermarket chains has added an extra layer of fun to the phenomenon.
Despite the light-hearted nature of the trend, it has not been without its drawbacks. Reports have surfaced of disturbances in Mercadona stores, including rowdy behaviour and disruptions caused by individuals taking the trend too far. In some locations, such as Bilbao, police have had to be called to manage the crowds. Moreover, the trend has led to concerns about potential fruit shortages, given the increased demand for pineapples and watermelons.
The trend’s impact extends beyond just supermarket shopping. It represents a novel approach to dating, blending traditional symbols with modern technology and social media influence. While the concept of using fruit as a dating signal might seem whimsical, it highlights a growing desire for creative and interactive ways to meet new people in an increasingly digital world.
In summary, the upside-down pineapple trend in Spain is a fascinating example of how social media and cultural symbols can intersect to create new social phenomena. It has brought a playful twist to the dating scene, with both positive and negative outcomes. As this trend continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how it influences dating practices and public behaviour in the future.
