Nov 29 2006
Americans are ordering more vinyl Christmas trees this year than ever before, according to the Arlington, VA- based Vinyl Institute.
At the same time, they are helping the environment, as the trees are made from millions of pounds of recycled vinyl, said industry spokesman Allen Blakey.
"Early reports from retailers and Christmas and garden stores suggest that sales this year will break all records," Blakey said.
One reason, he noted, is that the trees are more lifelike than ever. But other reasons could be more important. "They add an extra measure of safety in the home, because vinyl has fire retardant properties. They are generally favored over live trees for use in offices and other commercial buildings because of fire hazard concerns."
"Consumers love vinyl trees for many reasons, whether they have animals, allergies, or just don't want to pick up the pine needles, said Wally Kooiman of the popular Peppermint Forest Christmas Shop in Charlotte, NC. "Once people have a vinyl Christmas tree, they don't go back."
Interior designer Heather Quinn of HQ Designs in Charlotte said, "I would not use or recommend anything but a vinyl tree in my holiday design. They are safe, cost-effective, maintenance free, and look fabulous from any angle."
Vinyl trees are approved by the National Fire Protection Association, which reports that hundreds of fires are started each year when natural Christmas trees accidentally ignite, causing deaths, injuries and millions of dollars in property damage.
It is estimated that 70 percent of all trees purchased this year will be made of fire-retardant and recycled vinyl or other plastic material, the Institute said.