Rich Pusateri
Content Marketing Manager
Sustainability was cited as the fourth most popular trend in technology in 2023 and beyond. Here’s what David Groombridge, Distinguished VP Analyst at Gartner said on this topic:
Every technology investment will need to be set off against its impact on the environment, keeping future generations in mind. 'Sustainable by default' as an objective requires sustainable technology.
As a California Certified Green Business, Postal is not only committed to using minimal resources internally but also supporting our customers in achieving their green goals throughout business operations around the world. Many organizations have fallen into the pitfall of buying and warehousing an excess supply of branded merchandise only to change their logo and color pallet, leaving that inventory useless.
It’s time to change the wasteful narrative around swag and corporate gifting.
Today I’m proud to share more about how our domestic and international gifting approach to swag and gifting helps our business and Postal customers alike leave the world a better place.
Discover how to be more efficient with Postal's international warehousing.
Reducing CO2 emissions through sustainable partners and flexible warehousing
The corporate gifting and swag industry has historically been viewed as wasteful due to the production of items that are either neglected or thrown away. This is caused by the ideation and order process: one-off gifting point solutions and third party vendors try to maximize orders on the idea that “you save more when you order more”. All this truly does is boost their revenue as opposed to helping your business make the most of its budget…and produces excess inventory.
Offline Engagement Platforms change that model because they’re built to minimize swag creation and connect local vendors with recipients without items being stored in warehouses.
One of the key ways we reduce our carbon footprint is by minimizing the resources used for shipping items to recipients around the world. The Postal Marketplace is built to connect small and local businesses with recipients within their regions. Users of Postal can filter vendors based on their proximity to the recipient, cutting down on shipping costs and emissions. By connecting businesses with recipients in their area, Postal is able to eliminate the need for long-distance shipping and the associated carbon emissions—all while delivering local gifts and treats that leave a stronger impression.
Sourcing sustainable suppliers for custom projects
Managing custom branded projects can be a daunting task regardless of the size of the order or global reach of the program. For those who have been through the process before, you know the varying factors such as where items are sourced, stored, and eventually shipped. Each of these stages of the supply chain can impact the final outcome as well as the overall environmental impact of the project.
That’s why sourcing sustainable suppliers for custom projects is a critical aspect. Postal’s internal Paper Plane Team vets and chooses suppliers who prioritize environmentally-friendly practices, such as using eco-friendly materials, giving back to charities, and minimizing their carbon footprint. By sourcing such vendors, Postal customers reduce their impact while appealing to recipients with sustainable practices.
When it comes to corporate gifting, make a positive impact on the environment by choosing sustainable corporate gifts that align with your company's values.
Choose from flexible warehousing options
Postal partners with best-in-class vendors such as ShipBob to offer flexible warehousing options and remove the logistical pain of managing swag shipping & storage. With pay-for-what-you-use warehousing, you can manage both new and existing swag, as well as specialty items.
With warehousing available in the US, Canada, Europe, Australia, and the United Kingdom, you can store your inventory close to where it will be shipped. Postal also offers Delivery Duty Paid (DDP) shipping to over 180 countries, so recipients don't have to worry about customs fees. And with no mark-ups, you can enjoy hassle-free swag management with Postal.
Connecting local businesses with their communities
In addition to reducing CO2 emissions, Postal's approach to swag and gifting also supports local businesses. By connecting businesses to local recipients, we lift up local economies and help small businesses thrive. This approach also promotes a sense of community and connection between businesses and those who are lucky enough to receive their items.
Using eco-friendly packaging materials and direct mail
Another way Postal promotes sustainability is through their commitment to using eco-friendly materials. Postal’s warehousing and packaging partners offers a range of sustainable products, including recycled paper and dunnage.
Direct mail (postcards, bifolds, etc.) shares its reputation with swag in creating unnecessary waste. Fortunately, our direct mail provider, Xpressdocs, prides itself on operating as one of the most environmentally responsible print operations in the world. 90% of their paper stock is made from recycled products and they incorporate environmentally friendly inks for nearly all direct mail offerings.
Reducing the need for physical products at in-person events
Finally, Postal's digital approach to gifting and swag alleviates the need for physical products at in-person events. Postal's corporate gifting platform allows users to send digital gift cards and virtual swag through QR codes, reducing the need for physical products and the associated environmental impact.
Postal's technology-first approach to gifting, swag, and direct mail is a model that supports local businesses, reduces CO2 emissions, and promotes eco-friendly practices. As environmental consciousness becomes more top of mine, Offline Engagement Platforms prove that sustainability and profitability can go hand-in-hand.
Looking for more info about corporate swag? In our blog, we debunk several corporate swag myths that can help your business make more informed decisions about promotional products.
