Quick Quintet: Brand Power

I don't remember exactly when it was that everyone became obsessed with labels - sometime in the 80s I think, when it was all Lacoste this and Adidas that. I do remember if you didn't have the right trainers or sports bag, you were ridiculed at school.

Him Outdoors had a non-authentic action man when he was a kid. Apparently he had a squishy head and his hands fell off (the non-action man that is, not Him Outdoors). No one would let him play, somewhat unsurprisingly.

Now, I'm not what anyone would call a slave to fashion, but there are certain things that just have to be right; when imitations simply won't suffice.

5 Non-Negotiable Brands:

1. Persil automatic - possibly mum's fault; I like the familiar smell, and I seem to get a rash from just about anything else
2. McVities - no one else's digestives will do. And don't even get me started on Hobnobs...
3. Jaguar - E-type in particular: if it's not a Jaguar; it's just a car
4. Bombay Sapphire gin and Schwepps tonic - it's the perfect combination
5. Waterstones/ Unity Books - I will travel miles for knowledgable service