High Intensity Shoppers Are Causing a Returns Problem.
A WEFT survey finds that 27% of UK shoppers who buy at least two clothing items a month generate half of all apparel purchases, creating a surge in returns. One‑third of these high‑intensity shoppers admit to “free‑rental” – buying, wearing once and returning for a full refund, a behavior that doubles among luxury buyers. Returns now cost the UK fashion sector roughly £7 bn ($9 bn) and emit about 750,000 tonnes of CO₂. Brands such as ASOS have introduced a £3.95 ($5) return fee after a $127 m profit hit tied to this cohort.
People First, Planet First: United Repair Centre’s Blueprint for a Circular Fashion Industry.
United Repair Centre (URC), a B2B clothing repair firm launched in 2022, partners with over 30 global brands to extend garment lifespans. Leveraging Patagonia’s expertise and a social‑inclusion model that trains refugees and migrants, URC operates profitable repair hubs in...