Plastic-Free Doesn’t Mean Thought-Free

More brands are moving towards plastic-free promotional products, and that’s a great thing. But going eco doesn’t automatically mean getting it right the first time.

After working with businesses across the APJC region, I’ve seen how well-intentioned choices sometimes miss the mark. From rushed orders to mismatched materials, these slip-ups can derail sustainability goals you’re trying to achieve.

Let’s break down the five most common mistakes to avoid when ordering plastic-free merch and how to do it smarter.

Choosing Materials That Don’t Suit Your Use Case

Not all eco materials are built for all purposes. Just because something is plastic-free doesn’t mean it’s durable, food-safe, or fit for travel.

Examples:

• Bamboo utensils that splinter after one use
• “Compostable” mailers that disintegrate before delivery
• Cotton totes with no structure that don’t hold weight

Instead, ask:

• Will this item last through repeated use?
• Is it practical for the setting it’ll be used in?
• Does it reflect the quality of our brand?

Ignoring Print Compatibility

Some sustainable materials don’t hold ink or color well. If your design depends on crisp detail or brand colors, that matters.

Watch out for:

• Natural textures that distort logos
• Recycled paper with a grey or speckled finish
• Limited color vibrancy due to no plastic coating

Smart tip: Choose creative print methods like debossing, laser engraving, or tone-on-tone designs. You can still make it pop without sacrificing sustainability.

Overlooking the Packaging

You’ve nailed the product, but then it arrives in plastic wrap or foam inserts. Suddenly, your message falls flat.

Common packaging mistakes:

• Single-use polybags
• Excessive wrapping “for protection”
• Plastic labels or stickers

What to do instead:

• Opt for Kraft boxes, recycled sleeves, or reusable drawstring bags
• Use minimal, brand-aligned messaging on your packaging
• Be clear with your supplier about your no-plastic policy

Choosing Generic Items That Don’t Reflect Your Brand

Plastic-free options shouldn’t feel like an afterthought. But when rushed, many businesses default to safe, uninspiring items, and it shows.

How to avoid this:

• Match the item to the moment: gifting, onboarding, events
• Add personality through custom copy, packaging, or product sets
• Partner with a supplier who can show you creative, on-brand options

Forgetting to Factor in Freight

Freight is often where environmental costs add up, especially with bulky, natural materials. You might be plastic-free, but your carbon footprint could be growing.

Better planning looks like this:

• Ordering in bulk to reduce deliveries
• Choosing local suppliers to cut transport impact
• Avoiding oversized or heavy items if they don’t serve a real purpose

Be Intentional from Start to Finish

Plastic-free merch done right builds trust and impact. Done poorly, it wastes both budget and opportunity.

It’s not about being perfect. It’s about being thoughtful. From the product itself to how it’s packed, printed, and delivered, every decision counts.

If you’re unsure where to start, we’re happy to help you find sustainable solutions that actually work for your brand, your people, and the planet.