FEAR & GREED | Business News Interview: Why this startup turned down a monster order in its first year
May 15, 2025
Ben Read, CEO of Mercha, a company focused on ethical branded merchandise, reveals why they turned down a massive order for 250,000 plastic whistles. He discusses the environmental ramifications of branded items, noting that 66% end up in landfills. Read highlights the importance of ethical sourcing and responsible partnerships, especially in countries with questionable labor practices. He also emphasizes the need for quality merchandise to strengthen brand identity in the digital age, marking a shift towards sustainability and purpose-driven marketing.
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Ethical Refusal of Whistle Order
- Mercha turned down a large order for 250,000 plastic whistles early on because they knew it would lead to wasteful pollution.
- They chose ethics over cash, avoiding contributing to landfill or harbor pollution.
Choose Certified Ethical Suppliers
- Choose suppliers who are independently certified for ethical production and fair pay.
- Make suppliers sign a pledge against slave labor and unnecessary waste to ensure responsibility.
Value of Quality Branded Merch
- Physical branded merchandise remains meaningful despite digital saturation because people value tangible, lasting items.
- Poor quality merch undermines brand perception, so quality is key for long-term impact.