Category: Office Supplies

The Northeast’s seasonal weather shifts bring unique challenges for managers aiming to maintain safe, clean, and welcoming environments. Whether it’s winter snow, spring mud, summer heat, or autumn rain, each season dictates specific tools and strategies to protect both patrons and employees. At Metro Office, we offer a wide range of products—from indoor/outdoor mats to winter apparel—to help you stay prepared year-round. Here’s how to adapt your facility management practices to seasonal demands. 

Winter: Battling Snow, Ice, and Slush 

Winter in the Northeast is synonymous with freezing temperatures, snowstorms, sleet, and icy sidewalks. Keep your facility safe and functional with the following: 

Indoor/Outdoor Mats: 

• Why they’re essential: Mats are your first line of defense against snow and slush being tracked indoors. A good matting system reduces slip hazards and cuts down on cleaning time. 
• Pro Tip: Use heavy-duty scraper mats for entrances, absorbent carpet mats for lobbies, and anti-fatigue mats for workstations. 

Ice Melt Products: 

• Why they’re essential: They prevent ice build-up on walkways and parking lots and help reduce slip-and-fall incidents. 
• Pro Tip: Choose eco-friendly ice melt that won’t damage flooring if tracked inside. 

Floor Cleaners and Mops: 

• Why they’re essential: Salt and slush can damage flooring if not cleaned promptly. 
• Pro Tip: Use neutral pH cleaners to protect surfaces and heavy-duty mops for efficient cleanup. 

Winter Apparel: 

• Why they’re essential: Ensuring maintenance staff members are equipped with insulated jackets, gloves, and boots helps them perform outdoor tasks safely. 
• Pro Tip: Consider branded winter gear for a professional appearance, brand recognition, and employee appreciation.  

Spring: Managing Mud and Pollen 

Spring brings warmer weather but also rain, mud, and allergens. Here’s how to keep your facility ready: 

Indoor/Outdoor Mats: 

• Why they’re essential: During rainy days, water-resistant mats help trap moisture and dirt at entry points. 
• Pro Tip: Place scraper mats outside and water-absorbent mats inside to manage mud and rain being tracked inside. 

Floor Cleaners and Mops: 

• Why they’re essential: Muddy footprints and pollen can quickly accumulate, affecting cleanliness and air quality. Always have the necessary tools to keep these areas clean. 
• Pro Tip: Use microfiber mops for efficient cleaning and allergen reduction. 

Signage: 

• Why they’re essential: Slippery floors are common during spring rain showers. Slip and falls account for nearly 15% of all workplace injuries. 
• Pro Tip: Use highly visible “Wet Floor” signs in all areas of issue to warn patrons and employees. 

Summer: Addressing Heat and High Traffic 

Summer means increased foot traffic, high temperatures, and outdoor dust. Keep your facility in top shape with these essentials: 

Mats for High Traffic Areas: 

• Why they’re essential: Protect your floors from scuffs and dirt brought in by increased visitors. 
• Pro Tip: Anti-slip mats in lobbies and outdoor cooling mats for entrances create confidence. 

Floor Cleaners and Mops: 

• Why they’re essential: Dust and grime can accumulate quickly in high-traffic areas if they are not regularly cleaned. 
• Pro Tip: Incorporate walk-off mats at entrances to minimize the spread of dirt and debris, reducing cleaning needs and protecting floor surfaces. 

Signage: 

• Why they’re essential: High temperatures may lead to HVAC condensation, creating slippery floors and hazards. 
• Pro Tip: Place signs near areas prone to moisture buildup.  

Items for Staff Comfort: 

• Why they’re essential: Providing breathable uniforms and cooling accessories helps maintain staff productivity during heat waves. 
• Pro Tip: Ensure ease of access to cooling centers as needed.  

Autumn: Preparing for Rain, Leaves, and Early Frost 

Autumn brings crisp air and vibrant foliage but also rain and early frosts. Ensure your facility is ready with: 

Indoor/Outdoor Mats: 

• Why they’re essential: Fallen leaves and rainwater can make floors slippery. 
• Pro Tip: Use scraper mats to trap debris and water-absorbent mats to keep interiors dry. 

Floor Cleaners and Mops: 

• Why they’re essential: Wet leaves can create stains and safety hazards on floors. 
• Pro Tip: Regularly clean and polish floors to prevent damage. 

Ice Melt Products: 

• Why they’re essential: Early morning frosts can create icy patches. 
• Pro Tip: Keep ice melt supplies stocked to address unexpected cold snaps. 

Signage: 

• Why it’s essential: Warn of wet floors on rainy days or slippery areas during frost. 
• Pro Tip: Use weather-resistant signs for outdoor areas. 

Year-Round Essentials 

While each season has unique challenges, some products are indispensable throughout the year: 

• Custom Signage: Tailor your messaging to alert patrons and employees to seasonal hazards. 
• High-Quality Cleaning Supplies: Stock up on versatile cleaners and tools to adapt to seasonal messes. 
• Durable Floor Mats: Keep your customers, employees, and floors safe year-round with facility matting.  
• Emergency Supplies: Keep first aid kits, flashlights, and backup power solutions on hand for unexpected events. 

Trust Metro Office 

Seasonal weather changes require proactive planning and the right products to keep your facility safe and functional. Metro Office offers a wide selection of mats, signage, cleaning supplies, and promotional apparel designed to meet the demands of every season. By equipping your facility with these essentials, you can ensure a safer environment for patrons and employees all year long. 

Get everything you need to stay ahead of the weather!

In today’s business world, sustainability isn’t just a buzzword; it’s a core responsibility for companies looking to make a positive impact. Metro Office is committed to helping clients create workspaces that prioritize eco-friendly practices—especially when it comes to sourcing office supplies and furniture sustainably. Let’s dive into some of the key ways you can make a meaningful impact on your community and the planet through sustainable sourcing. 

Make Metro Your Procurement Partner!

Why Sustainable Sourcing Matters 

Sustainable sourcing isn’t only about using greener products; it’s about building a supply chain that respects and supports people, places, and the planet. By consciously selecting products that are responsibly sourced, companies can: 

• Reduce environmental impact: Choosing local vendors and eco-friendly products cuts down on emissions and helps reduce your overall carbon footprint. 

• Support the local economy: Buying locally strengthens community businesses, creating jobs and keeping more dollars circulating within your own region. 

• Promote healthier workplaces: Selecting office furniture and supplies made from low-emission materials leads to cleaner indoor air and a healthier work environment. 

Now, let’s explore specific strategies for sustainable sourcing in your office space. 

Buy Local, Support Your Community 

One of the simplest ways to embrace sustainable sourcing is to buy locally. Here’s how it makes a difference: 

1. Reduced Emissions: Transporting products from far-flung places leaves a large carbon footprint. By buying locally, you cut down on transportation-related emissions and support the transition to a low-carbon economy. 

2. Stronger Community Ties: Partnering with local suppliers can foster a deeper connection to your community. You’ll be helping businesses that share your vision and values, creating a collaborative culture of sustainability right where you work. 

3. Boosted Local Economy: Purchasing from local businesses not only builds community resilience but also drives local economic growth. Your investment in local products is an investment in your neighbors and helps create sustainable jobs close to home. 

Choose Recycled and Sustainable Products

 

Choosing office supplies made from recycled or renewable materials reduces waste and minimizes the environmental impact of raw material extraction and processing.  

Opt to buy notebooks, printer paper, and pens made from recycled or sustainably sourced materials. Many options on the market are made from post-consumer waste, which conserves trees, water, and energy. 

Standard cleaning products often contain chemicals that pollute the environment. By choosing eco-friendly cleaning products, you’re safeguarding the health of both your team and the planet. 

Instead of single-use supplies like plastic coffee cups, encourage employees to use reusable alternatives. Compostable options for items like utensils and plates also support waste reduction efforts. 

Choose Office Furniture with Low VOCs
and a Long Lifespan 

Low-VOC (volatile organic compound) office furniture can significantly improve indoor air quality. Here’s why that’s essential: 

• Improved Air Quality and Employee Health: Traditional office furniture may release harmful chemicals that can linger indoors. Low-VOC furniture emits fewer pollutants, helping reduce respiratory irritation and promoting a healthier workspace. 

• Durable, High-Quality Furniture: Quality sustainable furniture is built to last. While it might cost more upfront, durable furniture ultimately saves money, since it won’t need to be replaced as often as cheaper alternatives. 

• Reclaimed or Recycled Options: For an even greater impact, consider office furniture made from reclaimed wood, recycled plastic, or repurposed materials. These pieces add character and style to your office space while keeping discarded materials out of landfills. 

Implement Energy-Efficient Solutions 

Sustainable sourcing goes beyond materials. You should also opt for ENERGY STAR-rated appliances, LED lighting, and other energy-saving technologies. These solutions help lower electricity usage, reduce operational costs, and minimize your environmental impact. 

Additionally, utilizing Smart Technology can decrease your carbon footprint while also impressing your guests. Automated lighting, heating, and cooling systems can be adjusted based on occupancy, reducing energy waste. Motion sensors and programmable thermostats are excellent options for offices aiming to conserve energy. 

Join Us in Creating a Sustainable Future 

Metro Office is proud to champion sustainable practices and partner with clients dedicated to reducing their environmental impact. From local purchasing to eco-friendly supplies and furnishings, every step toward sustainability brings us closer to a greener, healthier future for all.

Is your office ready to make the shift to sustainable sourcing? Reach out to Metro Office today, and let’s start building a workspace that’s as good for your business as it is for the planet. 

Are you looking for ways to enhance productivity and create a healthier workplace environment? One effective solution to consider is scent control. By implementing strategies to manage scents in the office, you can not only boost productivity but also reduce allergens that may be affecting your employees. Let’s explore the positive impact of scent in the workplace, the hidden costs of allergens on productivity, how to navigate scent preferences and sensitivities, and the various tools and techniques available from Metro Office for allergen reduction.  

Improve Your Workplace with Metro Office!

The Surprising Power of Scent in the Workplace 

In the world of work life, we often forget how much smells affect us. They really do shape how we feel, which can change how well we do our jobs. A good-smelling office can make us sharper and help us remember things better. On the flip side, a stinky space can make us lose focus, feel uncomfortable, and less eager to work. By paying attention to smells, you can make an office that not only feels welcoming but also boosts everyone’s mood and brain power. Thinking about how smells affect our feelings reveals a cool way to make the workplace better for everyone—not just making it a nicer place to be, but also helping everyone feel and work better. This smart move shows just how important it is to consider the scents around us in making everyone happier and more productive, playing a big part in making the office a better place for everyone. 

The Hidden Cost of Allergens on Productivity 

Allergens lurking in the office environment—such as dust, pollen, and even pet dander—can significantly impact the well-being and efficiency of employees. These irritants are not merely nuisances; they can induce a range of uncomfortable symptoms like sneezing, congestion, and itchy eyes, which divert focus and diminish performance. The presence of allergens can lead to increased absenteeism, as employees take time off to recover from allergy-induced illnesses. Moreover, the constant exposure to these elements can contribute to a decline in overall health, leading to a cycle of chronic symptoms that further impair productivity. Addressing allergens not only fosters a healthier workspace but also mitigates the economic impact associated with lost workdays and increased healthcare expenses. Investing in strategies to minimize these irritants can yield a more focused, efficient, and healthier workforce, underscoring the importance of creating an allergen-reduced environment. 

Navigating Scent Preferences and Sensitivities 

Understanding and accommodating individual scent preferences and sensitivities is crucial in crafting an inviting work environment. Diverse scents, from the woodsy allure of rosemary and pine to the invigorating zest of lemongrass and grapefruit, have the power to impact mood and productivity distinctly. These scents can elevate a workspace, transforming it into a more dynamic and energized setting. However, the key lies in finding a balance that respects the smell preferences of all employees. Creating an olfactory brand for your workplace can be a strategic move, selecting a signature scent that embodies the essence of your organization. This unique scent becomes part of your identity, triggering positive emotional responses and instilling a sense of relaxation the moment employees or clients step into the office. This approach not only enhances the workspace atmosphere but also ensures that the chosen scents contribute positively to the work environment, considering both preference and sensitivity. Engaging employees in the selection process can further tailor the olfactory experience, ensuring it aligns with the collective preference, thus fostering an inclusive and harmonious work environment. 

Allergen Reducers: Tools and Techniques for a Healthier Office 

Combating workplace allergens requires a multifaceted approach, employing both innovative technology and smart workplace practices. High-efficiency air purifiers stand at the forefront of this battle, capable of capturing a broad range of particulate matter, including dust, pollen, and mold spores, thus significantly improving indoor air quality. Equally important are HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Air) filters, which can be integrated into HVAC systems to remove 99.97% of particles that have a size of 0.3 microns or larger from the air that passes through. This level of filtration ensures that the circulating air is substantially free of allergenic substances. 

Beyond mechanical solutions, the introduction of odor control measures plays a crucial role in maintaining a fresh and pleasant working environment. Options include eco-friendly, non-toxic odor eliminators that target and neutralize odors without adding harmful chemicals to the air. Regular deep cleaning routines also contribute to reducing allergens, with emphasis on areas prone to dust accumulation and dampness, which can foster mold growth. 

Implementing these tools and techniques requires a strategic approach. Establishing a schedule for replacing filters and conducting maintenance on air purifiers ensures these devices operate at peak efficiency. Through diligent application of these allergen-reducing strategies, offices can achieve a cleaner, healthier atmosphere conducive to both employee well-being and enhanced productivity. 

How Metro Office Can Help 

Metro Office stands as an essential ally for those aiming to boost workplace efficiency while minimizing allergen presence. We provide a comprehensive selection of state-of-the-art air purification systems, advanced air filters, and effective odor control solutions designed to meet the unique challenges of any office environment. Our expertise extends beyond mere product offerings, delivering invaluable guidance on implementing a healthier workspace tailored to individual organizational needs. Metro Office’s commitment to improving office air quality encompasses a consultative approach, ensuring that each solution is not only effective but also seamlessly integrated into daily operations. 

Are you looking for a new and innovative way to boost your brand’s recognition? Metro Office can help you do just that with our custom promo apparel. By providing branded apparel that puts your agency, school, or company name and logo front and center, you can turn your employees and customers into walking billboards and increase brand awareness. Whether you are a small business, a school, or a government agency, Metro Office provides a wide range of apparel to suit your needs.

Why Branded Apparel Is Important for Brand Recognition 

Branded apparel has been a popular marketing strategy for many businesses for years. And it’s easy to understand why. When employees and customers wear your company’s branded apparel, they become walking billboards for your brand. 

The power of branding lies in the repetition and familiarity of the image or logo. Every time someone sees your logo or hears your company’s name, they’ll be reminded of your brand and the services or products you offer. Branded apparel allows your company’s message to reach a wider audience, including potential customers who may have never heard of your brand before. 

Moreover, Metro Office’s branded apparel can help boost your brand’s credibility. When your employees wear branded apparel, they represent your brand and its values. This helps to establish your brand’s presence and authenticity in the minds of potential customers. 

Another reason branded apparel is essential for brand recognition is that it creates a sense of community among employees and customers. When employees wear branded apparel, they feel like part of a team and a united front representing the company. This sense of belonging is an essential aspect of employee satisfaction and motivation, leading to better performance and overall company success. 

Benefits of Wearing Branded Promo Apparel 

As a business owner, you should always be looking for ways to boost brand recognition and make your company stand out from the competition. One often overlooked tactic is investing in promo apparel that showcases your brand on t-shirts, hats, jackets, and other clothing items. And in a city like New York, wearing branded apparel can be particularly powerful, given the sheer number of people who will see your logo every day. 

Here are a few key benefits of investing in promo apparel from Metro Office for your business: 

Customizable Options 

At Metro Office, we offer a wide range of customizable apparel options to help you find the perfect fit for your brand. Whether you want to print your logo on t-shirts, hats, jackets, or bags, we can help you create a cohesive and stylish look that will help your business stand out. 

Cost-Effective Marketing 

Compared to traditional advertising methods like billboards or print ads, branded apparel can be a highly cost-effective way to get your company’s name out there. Once you’ve paid for the apparel itself, each person who wears it becomes a walking advertisement for your brand – and the more people you give or sell apparel to, the greater your reach will be. 

Increased Brand Recognition 

When your employees wear branded apparel, they become walking billboards for your brand, making it easier for potential customers to recognize and remember your company. This can be particularly powerful in a busy city like New York, where there are countless distractions vying for people’s attention. 

Employee Engagement 

Providing your team with branded apparel can also help to build a sense of camaraderie and pride among employees. When everyone is wearing the same logo, it can create a sense of unity and purpose that can be difficult to achieve otherwise. 

Who Metro Office Works with for Promo Apparel 

At Metro Office, we work with a variety of clients from different industries, providing them with high-quality promotional apparel that not only looks great but also represents their brand and message. 

One of our major client groups is government agencies, including federal, state, and local organizations. They understand the importance of having branded apparel for their staff, especially those who interact with the public on a regular basis. From custom uniforms for enforcement officers to t-shirts for park rangers, Metro Office offers a wide range of promotional apparel options that cater to their needs.  

In addition to government agencies, we also work with corporations and businesses of all sizes, including restaurants, gyms, retail stores, and more, providing them with customized apparel that showcases their logo, message, and values. Our team works closely with them to create promotional items that not only look great but also align with their branding and marketing efforts. 

If you’re looking for the right promo apparel for your school or education facility, Metro Office has you covered there, too. From sports uniforms and letterman jackets to coveralls and winter hats, we can help you get your logo out there for all to see. 

For small businesses, we offer cost-effective solutions that help them stand out and increase their brand recognition. From customized t-shirts for staff members to promotional hats and bags, we offer a range of apparel options that cater to their unique needs and budget. 

No matter the industry or client, Metro Office can supply high-quality and customized promotional apparel that can help boost brand recognition and visibility. Get in touch with us today to learn more about our options and how we can help your business stand out in a crowded marketplace. 

Types of Apparel Metro Office Offers 

At Metro Office, we understand that every business is different, and that’s why we offer customization options for all of our apparel. We can add your company logo, slogan, or any other design you have in mind to create a unique look that represents your brand. 

Metro Office offers a wide range of promotional apparel to suit your company’s needs and style. From t-shirts and hoodies to jackets and hats, we’ve got you covered. We also offer a variety of colors and sizes, so you can choose what best represents your brand. 

Our t-shirts are a classic choice for promo apparel and are available in a variety of materials, including cotton, polyester, and blends. We also offer both short-sleeved and long-sleeved options. Our hoodies are perfect for fall and winter weather, and we have both pullover and zip-up styles available. Jackets are another great option for those cooler days and come in varied materials like fleece and softshell. 

We also offer accessories like hats, beanies, and even scarves, which are perfect for promoting your brand in the colder months. Our hats come in a variety of styles like baseball caps and snapbacks, and we can even add embroidery for a more professional touch. 

If you’re looking for something a little more unique, we also offer options like aprons, tote bags, and even socks. These options are great for businesses like restaurants or retail shops and are sure to catch the eyes of your customers. 

The Metro Office Promise 

We are committed to providing our clients with high-quality, affordable promo apparel that will help boost their brand recognition. We understand that every business has unique needs and budgets, which is why we offer a wide range of options to choose from. Whether you’re a small startup or a large corporation, we have the perfect apparel solutions for you. Our team works tirelessly to ensure that our products are of the highest quality, without breaking the bank. You can trust the Metro Office team to deliver on our promise and help your business stand out in a crowded market. 

Are you looking for an effective, affordable, and sustainable way to promote your business? Promotional products are great tools for building a strong brand identity, and they can be used in a variety of ways, especially in New York City, where brands carry themselves all over town. From promotional pens and t-shirts to insulated mugs and water bottles, there is something for every business. Let’s discuss the benefits of using promotional products to build your business identity and create an engaging relationship with your customers. If you’re ready to boost your business and brand identity, read on! 

The Importance of Brand Recognition 

Branding is an essential element in any successful business. It helps to differentiate your company from your competitors and gives you a unique identity. When done right, branding can help to build trust and loyalty among your target audience, which ultimately translates to more sales and revenue. 

In today’s competitive market, it is not enough to simply have a great product or service. You need to have a strong brand that stands out from the crowd. This is where promo products come in. 

By using promotional products, you can effectively promote your brand to a wider audience. The key to successful branding with promo products is to choose items that are useful, high-quality, and reflective of your brand values. This will help to create a positive impression and leave a lasting impact on your target audience. 

So, let’s discuss how to use promo products to boost your brand identity. 

How to Use Promo Products to Boost Your Brand 

Promo products can be a powerful tool for boosting your brand’s visibility and making a lasting impression on potential customers. Here are some tips on how to use promo products to promote your NYC company. 

1. Choose the Right Products 

When selecting promo products for your brand, choose items that are useful, practical, and align with your brand identity. Consider items that are likely to be used and seen often, such as pens, lanyards, headphone cases, and water bottles. 

2. Distribute Strategically 

Once you have selected your promo products, think about how and where you will distribute them. For example, drop off pens at local restaurants or leave them in waiting rooms. Use lanyards to hold entry cards for trade shows or events. Give branded spill-proof insulated coffee mugs to employees or partners who commute. Provide reusable water bottles to attendees at outdoor events. 

3. Personalize Your Products 

Personalization is key to making your promo products stand out. Consider adding your business name, logo, or slogan to each item to reinforce your brand identity. 

4. Use as Incentives 

Promo products can also be used as incentives for customers or employees. For example, offer a free water bottle with the purchase of a certain product or give out branded headphone cases as a reward for hitting a sales goal. 

The Benefits of Promo Products 

Promo products are an excellent way to promote your business and reach new customers. Not only do they provide your brand with increased exposure, but they also come with a host of benefits that can help you boost your business’s success. 

• Increased brand recognition: When customers use your branded promo products, they help spread the word about your business. This creates a ripple effect of increased brand awareness and recognition. 
• Cost-effective advertising: Promo products can be an affordable advertising tool. They allow you to reach a broad audience with a relatively low investment compared to other forms of advertising. 
• Long-lasting impact: Unlike other forms of advertising that have a limited lifespan, promo products have the potential to provide long-lasting exposure for your business. As customers continue to use your products, they will continue to promote your brand. 
• Better customer retention: Customers who receive promo products from your business are more likely to become loyal customers. These products serve as a reminder of your brand and help to keep your business top-of-mind. 
• Increased sales: The increased brand exposure and customer retention that comes with using promo products can translate into increased sales. By effectively using promo products, you can increase your business’s bottom line. 

The Best Promo Products for Your Brand 

Once you have identified the messaging and image you want to project to your audience, it’s time to decide on the perfect promotional products to represent your brand. The options are endless, so we’ve rounded up some of the best products to give you some inspiration. 

1. Apparel  

Branded t-shirts, hats, and jackets are a great way to spread awareness about your brand. You can give them out to customers as a reward for making a purchase, or have your staff wear them to create a cohesive and recognizable image. You can even sponsor a local sports team so that your logo is seen often and by a wide audience.  

2. Tech Accessories  

In a world that relies on technology, promotional products like phone cases, chargers, and USB drives can be useful and practical for your customers. By putting your logo on these products, your brand will be seen by people every time they use their tech device.  

3. Drinkware  

Whether it’s a water bottle, travel mug, or reusable straw, branded drinkware is a fantastic way to promote your brand while helping your customers reduce their environmental impact. If you’re a cafe or restaurant, this is an excellent opportunity to sell your branded drinkware to your customers. 

4. Bags  

Branded bags can come in a variety of forms, from reusable tote bags to drawstring backpacks. This is a great opportunity to show off your logo while promoting an environmentally friendly message. 

5. Desk Accessories  

For those who work in an office or at a desk, branded desk accessories like pens, notebooks, and mouse pads can be practical while promoting your brand at the same time. 

How Metro Office Can Help You 

If you need help deciding on which products are best for your brand or help designing your promotional materials, Metro Office is here to help! We can help you choose the perfect product to promote your brand and create high-quality designs that reflect your business’s unique personality. 

No matter which promotional products you choose, make sure they align with your brand message and will be useful to your target audience. This will ensure that your branded merchandise has the greatest impact and is seen by as many people as possible.