.jpg) Decorative containers and ornaments are one way retailers are increasing the perceived value of fresh greens.American consumers tend to agree: Nothing heralds the holiday season quite like real trees and evergreens. Christmas trees—along with evergreen swags, wreaths and foliage—continue to see strong demand. Media coverage via lifestyle magazines and DIY/décor television programs heighten the visibility of this holiday staple.Rick Dungey, public relations manager for the National Christmas Tree Association, said research numbers confirm the popularity of farm-fresh evergreens. “We know from polling data that young adults (those 30 and under) choose a real tree over a fake, plastic tree more often than the rest of the population,” he said. “The main reasons include: it’s a more traditional experience, it’s a better eco-choice, and they want a tree to be an experience they have with family and/or friends. They know you can’t get those things from a plastic tree in a box stored in the basement.” Another element that has captured the nation’s imagination: The breadth of choices available when purchasing a tree. “Consumers can choose from such a variety,” Dungey said. “From a broad range of species—more than 35 in North America—that have different shapes, colors and need-types, to sizes (tabletop trees are an expanding product), to points-of-sale—whether it’s cut-your-own, or tree lots or even online sales.” .jpg) These days, the sustainability factor is what seals the deal in the real greens versus fake debate. “The environmental debate is over,” Dungey said. “The environmental groups and scientists all agree that using a plant that is renewable and easily recycled is a much better choice than using a non-biodegradable product made in a factory. Most people understand this, especially younger people. The only people still keeping the debate alive are the people selling plastic trees.” Retailers sign on for Trees for Troops .jpg) Many garden retailers have heard of Trees for Troops, a charity program to donate real Christmas trees to service members and their families sponsored by FedEx and Christmas SPIRIT Foundation. Rick Dungey with the National Christmas Tree Association said the program has made an impact on consumers.“This past season, a poll asked consumers if they read, saw or heard anything about Trees for Troops, and 14 percent said yes, while 11 percent said it influenced their decision to buy a tree,” Dungey said. The program will be active again this year. “We will mainly be focusing on increasing the ways that anyone can get involved and support the program, whether they are in the Christmas tree industry or not,” Dungey said. |
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