junk mail

Definition:
A colloquial expression used to categorize items of unsolicited mail such as unsolicited letters, pamphlets, special offer brochures, catalogues and questionnaires, which may or may not be addressed to named individuals, but which are mailed out by organizations in an attempt to get people to try, or buy, their products or service. The expression has been coined in recent years with the increasing use of direct mail as a sales method with its associated computer generated and printed addressed labels. The occurrence of direct mailing has increased considerably in recent years. Some members of the public are offended by the growth in volume of 'junk mail' and have sought to have themselves excluded from mailing lists. Although not extensively researched, it is thought that much 'junk mail' is disposed of unopened or after only a cursory glance by recipients. However, direct mail continues to be used extensively by organizations (e.g. Reader's Digest) which regard it as a cost-effective means of promoting their products or services.

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