Recycled advertising specialties represent a tremendous opportunity to reduce landfill clutter across the country.  By most estimates sales of promo items may equal 25 billion dollars in 2008.  With a steady increase in available products there is also a steady increase in businesses offering these products.   Several States now provide lists of approved vendors such as New Jersey's Recycled Promotional Products Directory.   This directory includes listings for dozens of vendors.

 

Why is this so important?  It is estimate that several hundred thousand tons of promotional trash is created each year.  That equates to roughly filling several municipal sized landfills per year.   So why aren't recycled items being used more frequently?  Cost is probably the leading factor with the average recycled item running 30% higher per our survey.   Some are trying to combat this higher price by offering special discounts.   One company has gone so far as to issue a press release declaring they will offer special discounts to those buying eco friendly items.  Over time though the recent studies released by several major news organizations may weigh heavily on future sales.  An alarming 50% of respondents no longer feel organic products are right for them with most indicating higher costs are a sticking point.  With the economy headed into a deep recession it is likely these pressures will continue to hurt sales.

 

Purchasing agents also need to be aware not all recycled items are created the same.  Some are not really recycled - carrying 51% or more of recycled parts but instead have lower recycled percentages and are therefore not technically "recycled."  Even more still use toxic inks which only continues the trail of pollution.   Look for companies to promote more and more organic and safe inks in the years ahead.