Industry Deep Dive: The Funeral Industry
For as long as humanity has existed, we have found ways to honor those who’ve passed on. From ancient burial mounds to modern memorial gardens, the rituals around death connect generations, cultures, and beliefs. The funeral industry has grown from these timeless needs, creating spaces of remembrance and healing. And while the ways we grieve continue to evolve, the heart of this industry remains the same: providing dignity, compassion, and a place to celebrate a life well lived. “Thou know’st ‘tis common; all that lives must die, Passing through nature to eternity.” - Shakespeare, Hamlet
A Brief History The American funeral industry as we know it today took shape in the 1800s, in part because of the devastating impact of the Civil War. Before that era, families cared for their dead at home, preparing the body in their own parlors and holding wakes with neighbors and community members. But the war changed everything. With soldiers dying far from home, embalming became essential to return their bodies to grieving families for burial. Embalming know-how didn’t disappear once peace returned — instead, it grew into a profession. Funeral parlors, the first true funeral homes, offered not just preparation services but also spaces for ceremonies and gathering, bringing grieving families together under one roof. These businesses became trusted pillars in their communities, balancing respect for tradition with gentle innovation. Even today, many funeral homes are still family-run, passed down through generations, carrying forward a powerful legacy of service and care.
Industry overview The funeral industry is significant both emotionally and economically, providing essential services while helping families find closure. Here’s a snapshot of its scale and scope today: Nearly 89% are family-owned. 15,700 funeral homes currently operated across the United States. About 3.2 million Americans die each year. The average funeral cost is around $7,850. 61.9% of Americans choose cremation. The U.S. funeral home market was valued at $13 billion in 2024. Projected to reach $13.7 billion in 2025.
140,000+ acres of land are dedicated to cemeteries nationwide. 33% still opt for burial. Projected to grow to $88 billion by 2033. Globally, funeral services reached $61.3 billion in 2023. The broader death-care industry, including cemeteries and crematories, is worth over $20 billion. Source: Grand View Research, NFDA
Traditional Funeral Services Traditional funerals continue to hold an important place for many families. The familiar sight of a casket surrounded by flowers, a eulogy delivered through tears, and a community gathered to share memories still provides a deep sense of comfort and closure. At the same time, these services are becoming more personalized than ever. From photo displays to video tributes to customized memorial programs, families want ceremonies that feel uniquely their own. Promotional products can help funeral homes support this personalization with: Velvet Pouch Item # 36627 Koozie Group Sympathy Greenery Card Item # DG59839 ADG Promotional Products Jot-N-Jolt Charging Portfolio Item # 25311 HandStands Losing a Loved One Coloring Book Item # 0458 Coloring Book Solutions
These seemingly small details can mean everything, creating moments of peace and comfort when words alone fall short. Winter Long Pashmina Wrap Shawl Item # GLITY001 Great Lake Images Inc Burt’s Bees Essentials Kit Item # BB-ESSKIT HIRSCH Ladies Open Front Cardigan Item # 7053 Edwards Garment Company Main Post™ Tablet Holder Personal Organizer Item # 97020 Origaudio
Cremation has firmly become the most popular choice for final disposition, thanks to its flexibility and often lower cost. Beyond traditional flame cremation, newer options like aquamation (a water-based process) and human composting are making headlines as ecofriendly alternatives. In fact, human composting is now legal in 13 states and growing in popularity among those who want a gentle, earth-conscious farewell. Funeral homes can lean into these sustainable trends with promotional items such as: Helping families navigate these modern paths honors their values—and gives them confidence during an overwhelming time. A6 100% Plantable Personalized Cardinals Holiday Card Item # CPP2703 Botanical PaperWorks USA Small Cotton and Linen Drawstring Bag Item # 1812092 Rivers Promo Inc. Veltex Urn Cremation Bags Item # 1607 Sunshade Holdings LLC Cremation & Green Alternatives
grief support Grief doesn’t end after the service. More and more funeral homes are expanding their offerings to include aftercare: support groups, remembrance events, and one-on-one counseling. These resources remind families that healing is a journey, and they don’t have to travel it alone. Promo ideas that extend that care might include: Each of these helps families feel cared for long after the ceremony, showing that compassion goes far beyond a single day. 14 oz. Black Luxury Candle with Gift Box - Printed Item # CANDLE-14B-S-BOX-P Bath Promotions Natural Crystal Worry Stone Item # SMCX420 Mamba Promotional Gifts Inc Flag Case Item # JIT66 JIT Manufacturing Inc
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Honoring animal companions has become a meaningful part of the funeral industry. Pet loss can be just as painful as losing a person, and many families want to say goodbye with respect and love. The global pet funeral market was valued at about $1.97 billion in 2024 and is expected to grow steadily, with it expect $3.75 billion by 2030. Cremation remains the most common choice, though dedicated pet cemeteries are still meaningful for many. Thoughtful promo products for pet aftercare might include: These small gestures help validate a family’s grief and remind them that love, and loss, aren’t limited to humans. Source: Grand View Research Round Shaped Dog Grave Markers Stones Engraved Item # PKH332 Hope Tree Promos Dog Memorial Urns Item # NQCWV058 NQ Promos Inc Pet Aftercare
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looking Ahead The funeral industry will always have its roots in tradition, but it continues to grow and adapt to a world where personalization, sustainability, and digital tools matter more than ever. Whether through livestreamed services, biodegradable urns, or grief wellness programs, the ways we honor our loved ones keep evolving. Promotional products can play a gentle but powerful role in that journey — creating meaningful connections and honoring stories with dignity and respect. “Our dead are never dead to us until we have forgotten them.” - George Eliot
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