On January 25, 2009, the Seattle City Council passed, by an 8-1 vote, a resolution asking the state of Washington to create a ‘Do Not Mail Registry’ so state residents can stop receiving unwanted promotional mail, (a.k.a. junk mail). The non-binding resolution is similar to a San Francisco resolution passed in March 2009.
A ‘Do Not Mail Registry’ would allow individuals to opt out of commercial junk mail. The direct mail industry has opposed such registries in the past saying that they "ban" junk mail. A registry would allow people to continue to receive direct mail if they want it.
Do Not Mail Registries
Seattle Follows San Francisco in Bid for Junk Mail Ban
Trend Themes
1. Do-not-mail Registries - The creation of do-not-mail registries can potentially disrupt the direct mail industry and force businesses to seek alternative forms of advertising.
2. Opt-in Marketing - Businesses can take advantage of the shift towards opt-in marketing by creating personalized and targeted marketing strategies for interested individuals.
3. Eco-friendly Marketing - Businesses can adopt eco-friendly marketing practices to appeal to environmentally conscious consumers who are in favor of reducing waste and protecting the environment.
Industry Implications
1. Direct Mail - A do-not-mail registry can disrupt the direct mail industry and force businesses to find alternative ways of reaching potential customers.
2. Marketing - The shift towards opt-in marketing can disrupt traditional marketing practices and encourage businesses to create more personalized and targeted marketing strategies.
3. Environmental Services - The creation of do-not-mail registries can encourage businesses to adopt eco-friendly marketing practices, creating opportunities for environmental services companies to provide sustainable marketing solutions.