The Truth About Metal Displays & End-Of-Life Recycling

At Metalfacture, sustainability isn't just a buzzword, it's the foundation of everything we do. We understand the growing need for environmentally responsible solutions, and that's why we've pioneered the Vertical Vendor, a patented metal display unit built with the future in mind. Here, we'll debunk the myths surrounding metal displays and reveal the truth about their end-of-life recycling potential.

The Cardboard Conundrum: A Mountain of Waste

Traditional cardboard displays, while seemingly convenient, come at a significant environmental cost. Shockingly, research suggests that around 40% of these displays never even reach the shop floor, ending up being recycled without even being put into store or worse, sent to landfills. This translates to a staggering amount of wasted cardboard, contributing to wasted resources and CO2e emissions. Additionally, the constant need to replenish these short-lived displays creates a logistical nightmare, involving transportation and further waste generation.

Metalfacture's Sustainable Advantage: Built to Last, Built to Recycle

Our Vertical Vendor stands in stark contrast to this wasteful model. Crafted from high-grade steel, the most recycled material on the planet, these displays are built to endure. Steel boasts an incredible recycling rate exceeding 90%, meaning the vast majority of steel ever produced is still in use today. This remarkable feat is a testament to the ease and efficiency of steel recycling.

The End-of-Life Journey: A Seamless Transition

When a Vertical Vendor reaches the end of its service life which could be up to and over 5 years, the recycling process is incredibly straightforward. Here's a breakdown:

1. Disassembly: The recycled card inserts, readily identifiable and separable from the metal frame, can be easily recycled through standard paper and cardboard recycling streams.
   
   
2. Steel Reclamation: The robust steel frame enters a well-established global recycling infrastructure. Through processes like shredding and magnetic separation, the steel is recovered and reintroduced into the production cycle. This recycled steel can be used to create new products, minimizing the need for virgin materials and reducing the environmental impact.

The Benefits of Forever Recycling:

Here's what sets Metalfacture's Vertical Vendor apart:

• Forever Recyclable: Steel's endless recyclability ensures these displays never contribute to landfill waste.
• Reduced Carbon Footprint: By eliminating the need for continuous production and disposal of cardboard displays, Vertical Vendors significantly reduce the overall CO2 footprint of your product display strategy.
• No Disposal Costs: The elimination of landfill waste translates to no disposal fees for a retail business.
• Minimal Logistics: Our units are built to last, reducing the logistical burden of constantly replenishing displays.

Beyond Sustainability: Enhanced Performance

Metalfacture's commitment to the environment goes hand-in-hand with exceptional product performance. Here's what makes the Vertical Vendor a superior choice:

• Superior Strength: Steel construction ensures durability and a professional presentation that reflects positively on your brand.
• Space-Saving Design: The compact footprint of the Vertical Vendor allows for placement in high-traffic areas, maximising visibility.
• Effortless Stocking: The innovative, self-serve design makes restocking items a breeze for store personnel.
• Multiple Product Compatibility: The unit accommodates multi-packs or singles of a variety of products, offering versatility for your display needs.

The Future is Metal: A Responsible Choice

Metalfacture believes in a future where sustainability and functionality go hand-in-hand. By choosing our Vertical Vendor displays, you're making a conscious effort towards a greener future. You'll benefit from reduced costs, streamlined logistics, and a display solution that reflects your commitment to environmental responsibility.

Join us in rewriting the narrative on metal displays. Together, we can build a more sustainable future, one display at a time.

Metalfacture: Built to Last, Built to Recycle.

Blog contribution in collaboration with Steve Lister Sustainability Consultant to Global Brands & Retailers