Cost Plus invites customers for tea

Looking to capitalize on the immense popularity of the PBS show Downton Abbey, Cost Plus World Market is having an online tea party and expanding its range of Downton Abbey products just in time for the holiday shopping season.

World Market is introducing an expanded line of Downton Abbey products, including a new two-tier serving tray, apron, tea towels, beverage napkins, note cards, a ceramic teapot, tea cup and saucer sets, dessert plates, jams and preserves and more.The fifth season of Downton Abbey premieres Jan. 4 in the United States.

The retailer will also celebrate its partnership with Downton Abbey with a “Do the Downton” tea party on Dec. 7, inviting people to host a tea party or join the retailer’s online version for prizes. To participate, people have to host a tea party — with family and friends or solo — with their favorite tea cups and teas. They then have to upload a photo onto Facebook, Twitter or Instagram with the person doing the “Do the Downton” tea party pose, with pinky up, and include the phrase “#DoTheDownton with @WorldMarket” in the photo description. Cost Plus will be giving 30 prizes away during the day, such as $50 gift cards and exclusive Downton Abbey tote bags and tea mugs.

Cost Plus World Market operates 270 stores in 32 states under the World Market and Cost Plus World Market trademarks.