When Tyler Simpson, founder of TJA Distributors, finished an hour-long pitch to a potential manufacturer, the client asked a question he’d been hoping to avoid: “How old are you?”
“I’m 18,” Simpson replied.
The client was stunned—but impressed. “When I threw the age at the end, we already built such great rapport and trust that age didn’t even matter. It was actually a plus,” Simpson says.
Simpson, a Bridgewater resident and recent Solebury School graduate, launched TJA Distributors at just 16 as a school project. The company’s mission: to help businesses use 100% recycled paper products and reduce deforestation without overspending.
In its first year, TJA distributed over a million feet of recycled paper. To date, they’ve distributed 3.5 million feet and saved an estimated 150 trees. Their efforts have helped five partner organizations—Solebury School, Mill Ballet School, Rutgers Prep, BeReal, and Roxey Ballet—cut about $25,000 from their annual budgets.
The idea was sparked by research Simpson conducted for school on deforestation and sustainable alternatives. “What if I can get the biggest users of paper products to use 100% recycled paper, so they don’t have to use virgin paper?” he asked himself.
Simpson worked closely with manufacturers to source eco-friendly products at lower prices than traditional options. His first client was his own school. With guidance from the CFO, he transitioned the school to fully sustainable paper products—starting with paper towels—and saved them $20 per case.
Simpson remembers crying tears of joy when his first big pitch ended in a deal. “Making that happen meant more than a business win—it was the start of my legacy,” he says.
TJA Distributors is named in honor of his two younger brothers, Justin and Alex. “I didn’t want them to grow up uninspired—I wanted to be a role model for them. Creating TJA was for them, to leave something behind they can grow, learn from, and use to make a difference.”
Raised in North Plainfield, Simpson witnessed tragedy early in life—and the loss of loved ones. His grief and faith became the foundation for his purpose: to show others love, create change, and build a better future.
In addition to TJA, Simpson has served as a volunteer EMS with the Lambertville 175 squad and continues to give back. Recently, his company partnered with Bucks County Parks and Recreation and Bucks Beautiful to plant trees. After researching native species, 15 volunteers came out to support. Clothing drives and other community projects are on the horizon.
He is also a volunteer firefighter in Bridgewater with the Green Knoll Fire Company.
Simpson is now attending Raritan Valley Community College and plans to keep growing TJA Distributors.
“I see him having his own manufacturing plant to create and distribute 100% recyclable products,” says his mother, Gaye Simpson. “But more than just success, I see him giving back and helping others.”