While some people think that it might be convenient to be able to pick up their favorite Philosophy 3-in-1's at a mass retailer such as Target, I think that it cheapens the brand. And it makes me wonder if this again is diversion.

Last year I noticed an end cap at Target with some Bare Escentuals. Today, there was a shelf full of Philosophy 3-in-1 Shampoo, Shower Gel and Bubble Baths. They were all 16 oz. seasonal scents (I think Apple Cider, Sugar Cookie, Snowman) for $16.00 each. This made me wonder if it is just a way for Philosophy to get rid of a surplus of merchandise.

Then, I come home and went to Target.com and low and behold, when I did a search for Philosophy, up came a variety of 3-in-1's for sale. Even more surprising was that this flavor, Mint Chocolate Chip, said it will not be shipping for 2 to 6 weeks. That to me, sounds like it is on order. Notice the $16.99 price too - more than what it sells for through Philosophy or Sephora.

I do not understand how a vendor such as QVC or Sephora would like this, as they will obviously lose a lot of revenue from a more prestige brand being so widely available. So maybe it is an unauthorized sale or just a test in the marketplace. With the economy in the state that it is, Philosophy might be reaching for different outlets in which to sell. I don't know. It sure doesn't sound like the smartest business decision to me, but I am a blogger - not a business woman.

I am going to reach out to my contacts and see if I can get any more information and will definitely report back.

What do you think? Is Philosophy being sold at Target a good thing or not? I would love to hear what you think!