Branded Merchandise Might Save the U.S. Postal Service

By Brendan Menapace

Due to a decrease in mail volume during the COVID-19 pandemic, the U.S. Postal Service could be dry of funds by September. Earlier during the pandemic in the U.S., the USPS estimated that it would hit that mark around May, but thankfully was able to secure funds to stay afloat a little while longer.

But, without government aid, that borrowed time might come to an end. To try to inject some money into the agency, the USPS is going the route of others forced to change their source of income due to the pandemic, such as artists and restaurants: branded merchandise.

It sort of comes as a surprise, but younger generations have really taken to the digital streets to save the USPS, circulating merchandise store links with hashtags like #SaveUSPS and #DontDefundUSPS.

Artists especially have been vocal on social media, as the USPS has been their most affordable option to get products into the hands of customers while things like touring and concerts have been on hold.

The USPS merchandise store actually appeals to a younger crowd, too. In addition to some pretty standard designs on things like T-shirts, there are some streetwear inspired products that went fast.

I just found out @USPS has merch (!!!) and yes I will absolutely be purchasing and wearing a usps crop top pic.twitter.com/KUnBkYe6y1

— Holly (@hollydollydee) July 31, 2020

That crop top went fast, and is now sold out. But there are plenty of other options on the USPS store.

For kids, there are multiple postal service toy vans, cars and trucks. There’s also a little mail carrier costume, in case they want to practice for a future career. Heck, you could dress the dog up like his arch nemesis if you really want to get cruel with it.

You know whats great about the USPS gift shop? Its not just clothes. Aside from shirts they have framed art, reusable bags, toy cars, a dog costume, A MAGIC KIT. Seriously give it a look and help #SaveUSPS https://t.co/okbvcqqJIJ pic.twitter.com/n2a5IpGUsk

— M • Big Butch (@dorkasslameo) July 31, 2020

For stamp collectors and historians, there are prints of commemorative stamps.

The USPS is also selling reusable bags, backpacks, puzzles and a lot more. Basically, if it has anything to do with the USPS and they can put a logo on it, it’s there.

We especially would love these “Air Mail” socks for when we’re playing basketball one day, but sadly they, too, are discontinued.

Just like every other streetwear product, we’ll just have to keep an eye on resale sites.

What an interesting turn, isn’t it? You wouldn’t think the narrative would switch to “USPS on verge of folding, but is propped up by the teens and their love of streetwear.” But, you know, 2020 has been full of surprises. We’ve kind of learned to stop questioning things when they seem too odd to be true.

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