We cannot fight the fake industry as individual farms. The CTPB was out spent by 12.5 times by the fake tree industry in 2016 ($1,200,000 to $15,000,000) but is putting up a strong fight by using this money wisely.
• Research has provided key messaging advantages of real trees that can and are being used effectively to persuade consumers to purchase real trees:
– The Experience
– Making Memories
– The Scent
– Environmental Benefits
– Supporting North American Farmers
• The Christmas Tree industry faces unique challenges other agricultural practices do not
– Few crops require several years to grow before they can be harvested and sold, current and future investments must be protected.
– Few crops can be so easily replaced with an artificial alternative
• You’ll save $.15 a tree by not fighting, but what is the cost giving up?
– Further reduction in market share
– Diminished value of farming property and business